Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: Implementation of a group format in the Spanish National Health System

Abstract

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) is considered the treatment of choice for this disorder, but it is not widely implemented in clinical settings. This study aims to examine the efficacy of a group format of CBT-i in the Spanish National Health System. Fifty-two participants with a primary insomnia disorder (55.8% women; Mage = 47.19, SD = 11.02) were assigned to a CBT-i (n =17) or waiting list condition (n = 21). Treatment consisted of eight group therapy sessions (2 hours/week). Significant improvements in insomnia severity, sleep quality, and insomnia-related dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes were observed in patients who received CBT-i. Emotional symptoms also decreased after the intervention in the CBT-i group. Findings support the efficacy of a group protocol of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia with a group protocol for patients with primary insomnia disorder. We also suggest a role of insomnia-related dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes in the maintenance of this disorder.