0924 Adolescent Perceptions of Insomnia Treatment

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Approximately 10% of adolescents meet diagnostic criteria for insomnia, which is associated with increased health problems, academic difficulties, and psychological morbidity. Empirical evidence supports cognitive-behavioral treatments for insomnia, yet research suggests adolescent insomnia is undertreated. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate adolescent perceptions about insomnia treatment seeking and strategies. Methods Adolescents ages 13-18 years with self-reported insomnia symptoms completed an online survey assessing treatment-seeking behaviors and management strategies. English-speaking participants were recruited using targeted Facebook advertising. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize results. Results Of the 3,014 survey respondents, participants were predominantly female (77%) and white non-Hispanic (71%), with a mean age of 16±1.3 years. Most (87%) met DSM-V diagnostic criteria for insomnia, but only 29% reported seeking professional help for insomnia. Of these, participants reported waiting an average of 1-2 years after symptom onset to seek treatment. Participants most often sought help from a mental health professional (18%) or primary care provider (13%), while <2% saw a sleep specialist. Across adolescents, the most commonly endorsed strategies to manage insomnia symptoms were daytime caffeine consumption (48%), staying out of bed except when trying to sleep (38%), and daily exercise (28%). Nearly half of participants endorsed currently using medications to help with sleep, most commonly melatonin (18%) and antihistamine-based sleep aids (10%). Participants reported greatest preference to take medication (64%), meet individually with a sleep specialist (48%), or use a phone or tablet application (40%) to help with sleep. While 30% of participants felt that sleep researchers should prioritize increasing access to insomnia treatment, 20% encouraged developing new modes for treatment delivery (e.g., online). Conclusion Adolescents with insomnia reported using behavioral and pharmacological strategies to help with sleep, with very few receiving treatment from a sleep specialist. Further research is needed to increase accessibility and acceptability of interventions for adolescent insomnia. Support N/A