Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
Learn how CBT-I treats chronic insomnia through sleep scheduling, stimulus control and cognitive strategies.
Overview
CBT-I is a structured, evidence-based treatment for chronic insomnia and is recommended as first-line care for many adults. It is more than general sleep hygiene and usually includes a personalized program delivered over several sessions.
Key points
Stimulus control
Rebuild the bed as a cue for sleep rather than prolonged wakefulness.
Sleep scheduling
Temporarily align time in bed with actual sleep, then expand as sleep consolidates.
Cognitive work
Address catastrophic beliefs and unhelpful monitoring of sleep.
Relapse prevention
Prepare for travel, illness, stress and occasional poor nights without abandoning the plan.
How W8MD can help
W8MD can evaluate medical and sleep-disorder contributors, review medications and refer or coordinate formal CBT-I. Suspected sleep apnea should be assessed rather than treated as insomnia alone.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBT-I the same as sleep hygiene?
No. Sleep hygiene is one small component; CBT-I is a structured multicomponent therapy.
Does it work with sleep medication?
It can, but medication changes should be supervised.
Can CBT-I initially make me sleepier?
Sleep scheduling can temporarily increase sleepiness, so driving and occupational safety must be discussed.
Evidence and authoritative sources
Contact W8MD
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa provides physician-supervised care in Brooklyn, New York and Northeast Philadelphia. Telehealth may be available for eligible patients based on location and applicable requirements.
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