A Treatment Study Comparing Two Non-Drug, Self-Help Treatment of Chronic Insomnia.

Computerized Self-Help Treatment for Primary Insomnia

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a handheld computer is superior to a self-help manual for the treatment of chronic primary insomnia.

Chronic primary insomnia is a highly prevalent condition, affecting up to 15% of the population. The condition is associated with daytime fatigue, lack of concentration, and decreased quality of life. Most people with chronic primary insomnia go untreated, because of a desire to avoid medication or lack of access to quality non-drug treatments. Therefore, an affordable, easy to use, and effective computer to help assess and treat insomnia symptoms could bring treatment to this population.

Comparison: We are comparing a new handheld computer that uses cognitive-behavioral treatment principles to a popular self-help manual for the treatment of primary insomnia symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

• sleep less than 6.5 hours per night
• at least 30 minutes of sleep onset latency or wakefulness after sleep onset
• symptoms present for at least 6 months
• must have insomnia symptoms at least 3 days per week

Exclusion Criteria:

• Body Mass Index greater than 32
• Presence of anxiety disorder
• Secondary forms of insomnia
• Presence of a substance use disorder
• Concurrent treatment for another mental disorder
• History of other sleep disorders, including: apnea, restless legs, periodic limb movement disorder, or narcolepsy