Identifying suicidal people long before they try it is a major goal of clinicians; early intervention is the best way to prevent a tragic death. Now, evidently, they have a new tool to work with. In the latest edition of the journal SLEEP, Swedish researchers report that among 165 patients admitted to hospitals after suicide attempts, nearly 90% reported having had some sort of previous sleep disturbance, including difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, nightmares or early awakening. Nightmares in particular were associated with a fivefold increase in suicidality.

What it Means: Just because you have a nightmare, it doesn't mean you're suicidal by a long shot. But, say the researchers, if they cause especial anxiety or disrupt your sleep often, you should probably see a sleep specialist for evaluation.

From the Archives:

Dec. 20, 2004: Why We Sleep
Oct. 2, 2006: Sleep, Snoring and the Blues