The Alarming Nightmare-Suicide Link: Essential Information for Clinicians
In this course, Dr. Leslie Ellis explains the often-overlooked connection between nightmares and suicide risk, revealing how nightmares are not just symptoms but potent predictors—and potential causes—of suicidal ideation and behaviour. Through a compelling mix of current research, clinical insights, and practical treatment protocols, Dr. Ellis challenges conventional views on sleep disturbance and offers clinicians effective, accessible tools for intervention.
About this course
In this course, psychotherapist and dreamwork specialist Dr. Leslie Ellis, Ph.D., introduces a compelling exploration into the strong, clinically validated link between nightmares and suicide risk. She synthesises decades of emerging research—including meta-analyses and cross-population studies—to establish nightmares as an independent risk factor for suicidal ideation and behaviour. Dr. Ellis explains why nightmares are often missed in risk assessments, highlights how they interact with trauma and emotional dysregulation, and presents practical, evidence-informed treatment strategies such as Imagery Rehearsal Therapy and her own experiential Nightmare Relief Protocol. <br><br>Clinicians will gain new tools to support clients struggling with trauma-related sleep disruption and suicidal thoughts, and learn how a shift in dream content could signal risk escalation or recovery.
Sign up to Australia’s most popular educational newsletter for mental health professionals