Positive Health Online

Abstract

BOOTZIN and EPSTEIN, Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA. bootzin@u.arizona.edu review evidence for competing explanations for understanding insomnia and psychological and behavioural treatments that are used to reduce insomnia.

Background

Sleep disturbance is intricately entwined with our sense of well-being, health, emotion regulation, performance and productivity, memory and cognitive functioning, and social interaction. A longitudinal perspective underscores the conclusion that persistent sleep disturbance, insomnia, at any time during the life span from infancy to old age has a lasting impact.

Methodology

The authors examine how insomnia develops, the evidence for competing explanations for understanding insomnia, and the evidence about psychological and behavioural treatments that are used to reduce insomnia and change daytime consequences.

Results

There are new directions to expand access to treatment for those who have insomnia, and thus a critical analysis of pathways for dissemination is becoming increasingly important.

Conclusion

References

Bootzin RR and Epstein DR. Understanding and treating insomnia. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology. 7: 435-58. Apr 2011.