A Treatment Study Comparing Two Non-Drug, Self-Help Treatment of Chronic Insomnia.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a handheld computer is superior to a self-help manual for the treatment of chronic primary insomnia.

Chronic primary insomnia is a highly prevalent condition, affecting up to 15% of the population. The condition is associated with daytime fatigue, lack of concentration, and decreased quality of life. Most people with chronic primary insomnia go untreated, because of a desire to avoid medication or lack of access to quality non-drug treatments. Therefore, an affordable, easy to use, and effective computer to help assess and treat insomnia symptoms could bring treatment to this population. Comparison: We are comparing a new handheld computer that uses cognitive-behavioral treatment principles to a popular self-help manual for the treatment of primary insomnia symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria: sleep less than 6.5 hours per night at least 30 minutes of sleep onset latency or wakefulness after sleep onset symptoms present for at least 6 months must have insomnia symptoms at least 3 days per week Exclusion Criteria: Body Mass Index greater than 32 Presence of anxiety disorder Secondary forms of insomnia Presence of a substance use disorder Concurrent treatment for another mental disorder History of other sleep disorders, including: apnea, restless legs, periodic limb movement disorder, or narcolepsy