We’ve all heard about going to therapy for emotional distress or relationship advice but now doctors and researchers are advising therapy for insomniacs too. It is estimated that roughly 6% to 10% of Americans are affected by chronic insomnia. Chronic insomnia being defined as at least three restless nights per week for at least three months. The American College of Physicians (APC) recommends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has a great track record for treating anxiety disorders, before people resort to medications.

Studies have shown that while medications for insomnia can provide good short term results, there are often serious side effects like depression, that can affect daily functions. The FDA even states medications for insomnia should only be taken for short periods of time because risk of dependency and side effects are too great. While CBT isn’t for everyone, when it does work, it provides low risk long term benefits. CBT will generally consist of four to six one hour weekly sessions that teach good sleep hygiene, sleep restriction, and stimulus control. The ultimate goal is to drive the techniques into people so that they will be able to perform the techniques and improve their insomnia on their own for long term benefits.