Testing a smartwatch app to reduce nightmares and improve heart health in veterans with PTSD

Plain-English translation of NCT06419959 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated September 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study tests a smartwatch application called NightWare, which uses heart rate and movement data to detect when you're having a nightmare and gently interrupts it before it fully wakes you. Researchers believe reducing trauma-related nightmares may improve both sleep quality and cardiovascular health in veterans with PTSD, since nightmares have been linked to heart disease risk. The app recently received special FDA approval as a promising new treatment for nightmare-related sleep problems.

Veterans with PTSD often suffer from nightmares that destroy sleep quality and may increase the risk of heart disease, yet many don't respond well to standard treatments like therapy or medication. This trial exists to see whether this new smartwatch-based approach offers veterans a different option that's easier to access and use at home.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with PTSD
you experience repeated nightmares that disturb your sleep
you are at least 22 years old
you have poor overall sleep quality (based on a standard sleep quality assessment)
you have reliable wireless internet and two power outlets near your bed
you are willing to not use other apps that track heart rate during the study

You likely don't qualify if…

you have unstable medical conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure or active heart disease
you have an active infection (though you may be eligible once it clears)
you have untreated thyroid problems
you have a history of substance abuse or alcohol abuse in the past 3 months
you are pregnant or breastfeeding
you work night shifts or have sleep disorders like sleepwalking or narcolepsy

What participation looks like

You would be randomly assigned to either receive the active NightWare smartwatch app or a sham (inactive) version for comparison. You'll wear the smartwatch during sleep so it can monitor your heart rate and movement patterns. The study involves periodic check-ins where researchers measure your sleep quality, cardiovascular health markers, and overall well-being. The full duration and visit schedule would be explained during enrollment, but the focus is on tracking how the app affects your nightmares and sleep over time.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 11, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, Aurora, Colorado