CBT-I stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, a structured, evidence-based treatment designed to help people with chronic insomnia. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts, behaviors, and habits that disrupt sleep. Unlike medication, CBT-I addresses the root causes of insomnia and promotes long-term improvements in sleep quality.
Key components of CBT-I include:
- Sleep Education: Understanding sleep cycles and the factors that influence sleep.
- Stimulus Control Therapy: Reducing behaviors that interfere with sleep and creating strong associations between the bed and sleeping.
- Sleep Restriction Therapy: Limiting the time spent in bed to match actual sleep duration, gradually increasing it as sleep improves.
- Cognitive Restructuring: Challenging and reframing negative thoughts about sleep.
- Relaxation Techniques: Reducing stress and promoting relaxation for better sleep onset.
CBT-I is often recommended as the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia.