Prevalence of different parasomnias in the general Norwegian population, and their association with insomnia, anxiety, and depression. A cross-sectional web-panel survey.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of various parasomnias in the general Norwegian adult population and explore their associations with insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in September 2024 among 1002 adults (50.7% male, mean age 50.3), drawn from a large population-based sample from a national web panel. Participants reported lifetime and past 3-month (current) prevalence of eleven different parasomnias, including both NREM- and REM-related subtypes. Validated instruments assessed insomnia (Bergen Insomnia Scale), anxiety and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-4). Associations were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regressions, adjusting for age, sex, educational level, and circadian preference. Response rate was 19.8%.

RESULTS

Lifetime prevalence of the parasomnias ranged from 2.3% (sleep-related eating disorder) to 47.2% (nightmares), while current prevalence ranged from 1.0% (injured somebody else during sleep) to 33.1% (nightmares). Insomnia, anxiety, and depression were associated with most of the parasomnias [e.g., nightmares-anxiety (OR 1.58; CI 1.42-1.74)]. Parasomnias were more common in younger participants, while sex differences were few.

CONCLUSION

Many of the parasomnias were commonly reported and strongly associated with insomnia and mental health symptoms. These findings underscore the need for increased clinical awareness and further research on parasomnias.