Sleep and cardiovascular effects of behavioural therapies for insomnia

Abstract

Background: Insomnia increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Stimulus control therapy (SCT) and sleep restriction therapy (SRT) are behavioural interventions which are effective for managing insomnia, but their effectiveness in alleviating symptoms precursor to or indicative of cardiovascular diseases is unknown. Aims: To evaluate the effects of SCT and SRT, on insomnia and cardiovascular symptoms, in persons with chronic insomnia. Methods: A randomised controlled trial was used. Participants (n=55) randomised to either SCT, SRT or no treatment group completed the study. Outcome data were collected before and after a 4-week treatment period. Results: Participants in the SRT group reported a reduction in perceived insomnia, and those in the SRT and SCT groups showed a reduction in cardiovascular symptoms. Conclusion: SRT and SCT are effective for improving insomnia and have the potential to reduce risk of cardiovascular diseases in individuals with chronic insomnia, as well as to manage insomnia when it is experienced with cardiovascular diseases.