FDA clears Apple Watch app that helps treat PTSD nightmares

Your Apple Watch could be the key to solving sleep problems related to nightmares. The FDA has approved the sale of NightWare, an Apple Watch app (with a matching iPhone component) that helps treat nightmares resulting from disorders like PTSD. The system uses the smartwatch’s movement and heart rate data to detect when you’re having a nightmare and vibrate the bracelets in response, tricking you (but not waking you up) to interrupt bad dreams and maintain sleep.

NightWare is only available by prescription, and its eponymous company emphasized that it is not a stand-alone treatment. It’s part of a larger strategy that includes drugs. He also cautioned against Apple Watch therapy if you “act” while you sleep.