0362 Video-conference Delivery Of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy For Insomnia: Effects On Insomnia, Depression And Anxiety Symptoms

Abstract

Introduction: A large body of clinical research demonstrates that cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) is effective in reducing insomnia symptoms and can improve comorbid symptoms of anxiety and depression. Despite this, access to CBTi remains extremely limited. The current study examined the effects of a novel CBTi program (HALEO), designed to be readily accessible. It comprises five weekly 30‐minute video‐conference‐enabled sessions with a therapist, supported by a digital platform. Methods: 82 participants (mean age = 46.02, SD = 11.06) with insomnia, screened for other untreated sleep disorders, completed the HALEO CBTi program. The efficacy of the HALEO CBTi program was measured by the change in the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to measure changes in anxiety (HADS‐A) and depression (HADS‐D) symptoms. The ISI and HADS were filled out at the beginning of therapy (baseline) and just before the final therapy session (post‐therapy). Data were analyzed with one‐tailed Student paired t‐tests. Results: ISI scores were significantly lower post‐therapy (M = 8.95, SD = 3.91) compared to baseline (M = 15.71 SD = 3.69; t(81) = 12.44) p