An Introduction to Brief Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia

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Insomnia is a certain sleep disorder that can make it difficult for one to fall asleep, stay asleep, or both. People with insomnia may feel exhausted during the day and have trouble concentrating or completing tasks. 

Many potential things can cause insomnia, including stress, anxiety, medical conditions, and certain medications. If you have difficulty sleeping, it is key to talk to a sleep specialist to find a potential solution.

Brief behavioral treatment for insomnia or BBTI is a derivative of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBTI) that is designed to help people with insomnia. Continue reading to learn more.

 

Defining Brief Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia

Brief behavioral treatment for insomnia is a type of therapy that is specifically designed to treat insomnia. BBTI typically includes education about sleep, sleep hygiene, and stress management. Treatment also focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to insomnia, such as perfectionism, worry, and rumination.

BBTI typically consists of four to eight weekly sessions that last for 30 to 60 minutes each. Any thoughts or behaviors that negatively impact your sleep will be identified during these sessions. For example, you may learn how to create a more relaxing bedtime routine or how to deal with stress in a way that doesn’t interfere with your sleep.

 

 

Undergoing Brief Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia

If you’re interested in undergoing brief behavioral treatment for insomnia, you will first need to consult with a sleep specialist to see if this type of therapy is right for you. Once you’ve decided to proceed with treatment, you will typically meet with your therapist on a weekly basis for four to eight weeks.

They may also provide some homework to do outside of therapy, such as keeping a sleep diary or practicing relaxation techniques. You must be honest with your therapist and to complete any homework assignments to get the most out of treatment.

 

Understanding Who Brief Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia Is For

Brief behavioral treatment for insomnia is typically recommended for people who have difficulty falling or staying asleep around three nights per week and who have been experiencing these symptoms for at least one month. 

This type of treatment is also often recommended for people who are not interested in taking sleep medications. Plenty of people may have tried sleep medications but found them to be ineffective.

 

Comparing Brief vs. Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia

Both are based on the cognitive-behavioral model of insomnia, which posits that insomnia is caused by negative thoughts and behaviors related to sleep. While brief behavioral treatment focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors related to sleep, cognitive behavioral treatment for insomnia also addresses the underlying negative beliefs that may be causing these thoughts and behaviours.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) is similar to brief behavioral treatment for insomnia in many ways. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is typically recommended for people who have moderate to severe insomnia. Brief behavioral treatment for insomnia is often recommended for people who have mild insomnia or who are not interested in cognitive behavioral therapy.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, insomnia is a common problem that can have a negative impact on one’s quality of life. While there are many potential reasons behind insomnia, brief behavioral treatment can be an effective way to address the problem. 

Need help with insomnia? Sleep Better Live Better’s Dr. Muir and her qualified sleep team and her qualified sleep team in Vancouver have helped thousands of patients find healthy sleep solutions. Get in touch with us today!