Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia: a group format implementation in the Spanish National Health System

Background. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) is considered the first-line treatment for this disorder, but it is not widely implemented in clinical settings. This study aims to examine the efficacy of a CBT-i in group format in the Spanish National Health System. Method. Fifty-two participants with a Primary Insomnia Disorder (55.8% women; Mage = 47.19, SD = 11.02) were assigned to a CBT-i (n =17) or waiting list condition (n = 21). Treatment consisted of eight group format sessions (2 hours/week). Results. Significant improvements in insomnia severity, sleep quality, and insomnia-related dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes were observed in patients who received CBT-i. Emotional symptoms also decreased after the intervention in the CBT-i group. Conclusion. Findings support the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia with a group protocol for patients with primary insomnia disorder. The maintenance role of insomnia-related dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes in this disorder is also suggested.