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January 29, 2025
In recent studies, experts have emphasized the superiority of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) over traditional sleeping pills as a long-term solution to sleep disturbances. While the non-drug approach is gaining traction, it remains underutilized in Australia, prompting calls from Flinders University researchers for wider access and adoption of CBTi.
Dr. Alexander Sweetman, a research fellow at Flinders University, explained that despite insomnia being one of the most common reasons Australians seek medical help, sleeping pills continue to be the go-to treatment. “CBTi is the most effective and recommended first-line treatment for insomnia, as it addresses the root causes of chronic sleep disorders without the reliance on medication,” Sweetman said. “Unfortunately, it is still only accessed by 1% of people with insomnia.”
CBTi, a specially designed therapy for those struggling with sleep, has been proven to deliver lasting results by targeting the underlying causes of insomnia. The therapy has garnered widespread praise, with hundreds of studies validating its effectiveness. Despite this, sleeping pills are still predominantly prescribed, even though evidence shows they are less effective in the long run compared to behavioral treatments.
Chronic insomnia affects 10–15% of Australian adults, while short-term insomnia is even more prevalent. Without proper treatment, insomnia can lead to serious health risks, including psychiatric disorders, hypertension, and accidents, while also contributing to lost productivity and higher healthcare costs.
In an effort to increase the adoption of CBTi, Flinders University researchers, in collaboration with the SAX Institute, have published a five-year study urging more Australian health professionals to promote and provide access to CBTi. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, outlines a comprehensive program to improve the accessibility and integration of CBTi into the Australian healthcare system.
Emeritus Professor Doug McEvoy, a co-author of the study, highlighted the pivotal role of General Practitioners (GPs) in the healthcare system. “GPs are often the first point of contact for patients with sleep issues, and they play a crucial role in referring patients to appropriate treatments. Our study emphasizes the need for GPs to be better equipped with knowledge of CBTi and how to provide it to patients.”
The research group has proposed several key recommendations, including:
- Improving GP awareness of insomnia and CBTi
- Raising awareness of funding options to access CBTi
- Developing GP education resources, including an online insomnia management guideline
- Establishing a psychologist CBTi training program
- Launching a GP CBTi training program at Flinders University
- Developing and testing an interactive digital CBTi program
Dr. Jenny Haycock, a sleep expert involved in the study, noted that while many GPs are aware of the risks associated with long-term use of sleeping pills, they often lack knowledge of CBTi. “There seems to be a growing willingness to embrace CBTi, and I’m hopeful that with greater awareness, many more insomnia patients will be able to access this evidence-based treatment,” she added.
Professor Robert Adams, a senior respiratory and sleep physician at Flinders University, emphasized the importance of education and training in reshaping the treatment landscape. “We encourage patients to ask their GPs about CBTi and advocate for increased access to non-drug interventions,” he concluded.
The findings from the study are a significant step forward in improving the management of insomnia and supporting better sleep health across Australia.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on recent studies and expert recommendations. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about your treatment options.
