Sleep's Influence on the Treatment of Intrusive Emotional

Intrusive memories represent a debilitating core feature of PTSD, one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders following trauma. Exposure therapy is amongst the most successful treatments of PTSD that is recommended by most of the current national and international guidelines. The current study aims to test whether sleep as adjunct to written exposure sessions, a type of exposure- based treatment for PTSD, may boost the effectiveness of the therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:DSM V criteria of PTSD (at least moderate symptoms in two categories)Currently receiving Written Exposure Therapy at one of the psychotherapy centers at the Psychiatric University Clinic (PUC).Not more than moderate alcohol consumption (not more than 5 alcoholic drinks/week).Ability to understand the study instructionsExclusion Criteria:Travel over > 3 time zones in < 3 monthshead injuryshift workcurrent substance abuseneurological diseasedrug addictionCurrent suicidalitySpecific exclusion criteria for the fMRI:Acute psychotic symptomsPregnancyClaustrophobiaMagnetic resonance imaging incompatibility:Cardiac pacemaker or other metallic implants (e.g. metallic cardiac valve, insulin pump)Metallic foreign particles (e.g. after bullet wound, shell splinter, clips, metal prostheses)