According to a new study, sleep spindles, which are tiny bursts of brain activity measured by EEG during one period of sleep, may help to manage anxiety in those who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The study involved 45 people who had all undergone war or noncombat trauma; around half of them had significant PTSD symptoms, while the other half had lesser symptoms or were asymptomatic. The spindles were observed during non-rapid eye movement 2 (NREM2) sleep, accounting for approximately 50% of total sleep.

Experts found that Naps taken soon after exposure to violent pictures may be helpful for persons suffering from PTSD and maybe anxiety problems. Interventions such as prescription medicines, electrical brain stimulation, and sleep hygiene may be utilized to activate the spindles associated with NREM2 sleep and aid individuals suffering from stress and anxiety problems. Sleep hygiene is a low-cost and simple approach to guarantee that sleep phases are entered correctly, maximizing the effect of spindles in the immediate aftermath of a stressful incident.

The researchers also intend to investigate the role of spindles in the consolidation and replay of intrusive and violent memories several weeks after trauma exposure. They concluded that these findings may have implications not only for persons suffering from PTSD but also for those suffering from anxiety disorders. Overall, this study highlights the potential benefits of sleep regulation for people with PTSD and underscores the importance of sleep in overall mental health and well-being. 

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/sleep-phase-may-reduce-anxiety-in-people-with-ptsd-study/1554458/)