Cognitive-behavioral group therapy for insomnia in individuals with serious mental illnesses: a preliminary evaluation

Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2004 Winter;27(3):235-42. doi: 10.2975/27.2004.235.242.

Abstract

Chronic insomnia is a problem among individuals with serious mental illnesses. In an effort to expand treatment options, we examined whether well-established cognitive-behavioral treatments for insomnia developed for individuals in the general population generalize to those for people with serious mental illnesses. Individuals participated in comprehensive sleep evaluations and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Results suggest that sleep problems often began during periods of distress and/or exacerbation of illness but were maintained by environmental, behavioral, and cognitive factors. With the treatment, participants reported improvement in many sleep parameters. Initial indication is that cognitive-behavioral therapy does generalize. More rigorous research seems warranted.

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Depression / complications
  • Depression / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / complications*
  • Mental Status Schedule
  • Middle Aged
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / complications*
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / therapy*
  • Wakefulness