What to do if patients are unable to report their usual bed times and sleep duration?
To determine the sleep window, average values of bed times and sleep duration are needed. However, some patients may be unable to reliably report their sleep-wake behavior — for example, due to acute crises, substance use, or severe illness-related symptoms that cause a disrupted and irregular sleep rhythm. If patients have only recently been admitted […]
How can I support patients who spend very long periods in bed?
Patients often report extended bedtimes of more than 12 hours, especially in the inpatient setting. This is particularly pronounced in certain disorders, such as depression or anxiety disorders. For the intervention to be effective, it is very important that time before and after the sleep window is spent outside of the bed. The “surfer image” […]
How can patients spend the additional time outside of bed?
When patients implement a sleep window adapted to their current sleep time, more time must be spent outside of bed. A common feedback from patients is that the bed/bedroom is their only place of retreat. Some patients may need motivation to get up and spend time outside of bed. An individualized daily routine can support […]
Can SLEEPexpert help when external factors disturb sleep?
Patients often report difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. Upon closer inquiry, external factors can sometimes be the cause. Simple solutions such as earplugs or a sleep mask can sometimes help in these cases. Assessing the cause is important because difficulties falling or staying asleep that do not meet diagnostic criteria of insomnia disorder are […]