What is the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)?
The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) is a questionnaire used to assess the severity of insomnia symptoms. It can be completed by patients in just a few minutes. A total score of ≥ 8 indicates clinically relevant insomnia symptoms. Due to copyright regulations, the questionnaire cannot be provided here. For more information: contact@sleepexpert.ch.
Which fundamental processes of sleep regulation is SLEEPexpert based on?
SLEEPexpert is based on two fundamental processes of sleep regulation: sleep-wake behavior (homeostatic) and daily rhythm (circadian). A sufficient period of wakefulness is necessary to build up enough sleep pressure to initiate and maintain sleep. This is supported by a circadian decline in the wake-promoting signal in the late evening (decreasing evening wake maintenance zone). […]
What is the aim of SLEEPexpert?
SLEEPexpert is an adaptation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT‑I) tailored to routine clinical care. It equips healthcare professionals with a practical and structured treatment programm to support the sleep health of their patients.
Who can benefit from SLEEPexpert?
SLEEPexpert is deliberately designed with minimal exclusion criteria; in particular, a specific comorbid condition is not considered an exclusion criterion. To participate in the program, insomnia symptoms should be at least partially independent of any other acute disorder or substance use, or the symptoms are so severe that they cannot be fully explained by another […]
What are the diagnostic criteria for insomnia disorder?
The diagnostic criteria for insomnia disorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‑5) and the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11), are as follows: A. A predominant complaint of dissatisfaction with sleep quantity or quality, associated with one or more of the following symptoms: 1. Difficulty falling asleep […]
What is CBT‑I?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT‑I) is a combination treatment that includes behavioral changes, relaxation techniques, and modification of unhelpful thoughts related to sleep. Within this approach, therapists provide psychoeducation and recommend specific changes in behavior to improve sleep.
What is bedtime restriction?
Bedtime restriction refers to the deliberate reduction of time spent in bed, with the goal of minimizing unpleasant wakefulness and promoting a more consolidated and efficient sleep period.
What is a sleep window?
A sleep window is a defined time frame for sleep with a set bedtime and wake-up time (e.g., 11.30 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.). The duration of the sleep window is adapted to the individuals reported sleep time. The timing is based on personal preferences as well as other individual factors and obligations.
When is treatment with SLEEPexpert not recommended?
Is the insomnia disorder entirely attributable to another acute medical condition or substance use (e.g., in the context of an acute psychosis or a withdrawal syndrome) and is highly likely to remit as the underlying condition improves, a separate treatment with SLEEPexpert may not be necessary and should be evaluated based on clinical judgment.
What should I be cautious about when treating patients with bipolar, psychotic disorders, or unstable somatic conditions?
Special caution is required when treating patients with bipolar or psychotic disorders, as well as those with unstable somatic illnesses. Sleep deprivation (a side effect of bedtime restriction) can trigger changes in mood episodes or decompensation. In these cases, bedtime restriction should be approached cautiously and closely monitored. It should be emphasized, that the program […]