Sleep Course for Insomnia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests an internet-based course aimed at helping public safety personnel (PSP) with insomnia. The goal is to determine if this online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can effectively improve sleep problems, similar to a program in Australia. It is ideal for current or former PSP in Canada who have sleep issues and internet access. Participants should be willing to learn new skills to manage their sleep better. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to innovative research that could enhance sleep health for PSP.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this Sleep Course is safe for public safety personnel?
Research has shown that online cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (ICBTi) is generally safe for individuals with sleep difficulties. Studies have found that it significantly improves sleep issues without causing serious side effects. For instance, a review of several studies found that electronic CBT for insomnia (eCBT-I) reduces insomnia severity and enhances sleep quality, indicating that the treatment is usually well-tolerated.
As this is not a medication, the risk of physical side effects is low. Participants might experience some initial frustration while adjusting to the new therapy approach. However, the benefits, such as improved sleep, typically outweigh these minor drawbacks.
Overall, ICBTi appears to be a safe option for those struggling with insomnia, particularly for public safety personnel who often encounter unique sleep challenges.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Sleep Course for insomnia because it uses internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBTi), offering a fresh approach to managing this sleep disorder. Unlike traditional options like medication or face-to-face therapy, ICBTi is therapist-guided and accessible online, making it more convenient and potentially more affordable. This method not only provides flexibility for users to engage with the treatment at their own pace but also aims to address insomnia by changing thought patterns and behaviors associated with sleep, which can lead to long-lasting improvements.
What evidence suggests that the Sleep Course is effective for insomnia?
Research has shown that online cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (ICBTi), which participants in this trial will receive, effectively improves sleep problems. Studies have found that ICBTi can significantly reduce the impact of insomnia. It also enhances sleep quality and decreases the time needed to fall asleep. One study found that ICBTi lowered the insomnia severity index by 4.3 points, demonstrating a clear benefit. Overall, this therapy has proven effective in helping people sleep better and longer.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Heather D Hadjistavropoulos, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Regina
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for public safety personnel who are experiencing sleep difficulties, potentially alongside anxiety disorders or depression. It's designed to help those struggling with insomnia improve their sleep.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the Sleep Course, an internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, over 6 weeks with 4 online lessons
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in sleep quality, insomnia severity, anxiety, and other measures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Sleep Course
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Regina
Lead Sponsor
Government of Canada
Collaborator