Effect of WBT for CI With Depression

Investigating on the Efficacy of Well-Being Therapy (WBT) for Chronic Insomnia (CI) With Depressive Symptoms

This randomized controlled trial aims to explore the therapeutic effects of Well-Being Therapy (WBT) on patients with Chronic Insomnia accompanied by depressive symptoms.

According to DSM-IV criteria, approximately 6%-10% of the adult population in industrialized countries suffer from chronic insomnia (CI), characterized by difficulties in initiating or maintaining sleep accompanied by daytime symptoms persisting for at least four weeks. Chronic insomnia often leads to various psychiatric symptoms, with depressive symptoms being among the most common. For patients with CI and comorbid depressive symptoms, the most common treatment involves the use of antidepressant medications. However, while depressive symptoms may improve, insomnia symptoms often persist.

Among non-pharmacological interventions aimed at promoting psychological well-being, Well-Being Therapy (WBT) stands out as a brief and innovative psychotherapeutic approach. WBT is a structured, manualized, short-term therapy that incorporates self-monitoring of well-being episodes through the use of a diary, cognitive restructuring of interfering thoughts and behaviors, and homework assignments.

Previous research has demonstrated the effectiveness of WBT in alleviating stress in populations experiencing 'allostatic load.' This study seeks to evaluate the therapeutic effects of six WBT sessions on individuals with CI and comorbid depressive symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed with Insomnia Disorder according to DSM-5 criteria, with a duration of at least 3 months.
2. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) total score > 5.
3. Age 8 years or older.
4. Educational level of at least junior high school.
5. Voluntarily agree to participate and provide written informed consent.
6. Presence of depressive symptoms, defined as Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) score ≥ 16.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of severe physical illnesses or major psychiatric disorders, or at risk of suicide.
2. Diagnosed or suspected of having sleep breathing disorders, restless legs syndrome, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, or engaged in shift work.
3. Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
4. Currently undergoing any psychological therapy.