Nonpharmacologic treatments of insomnia

J Clin Psychiatry. 1992 Jun:53 Suppl:37-41.

Abstract

Nonpharmacologic treatments that have been evaluated for insomnia are reviewed. These include sleep hygiene techniques, stimulus control instructions, sleep restriction, chronotherapy, bright light therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, and cognitive therapy. Comparative studies of the different treatments indicate considerable overlap in effectiveness. Direct comparisons between treatments have shown stimulus control instructions to be more effective than either relaxation training or paradoxical intention. Further research is needed on the tailoring of treatments to patient needs, as are more detailed comparisons between pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Behavior Therapy / methods
  • Benzodiazepines / therapeutic use
  • Biofeedback, Psychology
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Humans
  • Medical Records
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Phototherapy
  • Relaxation Therapy
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / drug therapy
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / etiology
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / therapy*

Substances

  • Benzodiazepines