Estimating Public Knowledge About Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and Alternative Treatments

This study assessed public knowledge about insomnia treatments, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), and examined whether familiarity varied by gender or race. The primary aim was to quantify what proportion of adults in the United States are familiar with and use CBT-I.

A nationally representative sample of 3080 U.S. adults (M_age= 39.5 years, SD_age= 12.9) was surveyed. Approximately 48.3% identified as women. Participants reported their familiarity with various insomnia treatments, including pharmacological and behavioral options, and whether they had used prescription medications, over-the-counter sleep aids, or CBT-I within the past year or at any point in their lifetime.

Participants were substantially more familiar with pharmacological treatments than behavioral therapies, with notably low recognition of CBT-I. Treatment utilization patterns supported that people tend to have a greater reliance on pharmacological interventions, particularly over-the-counter options, than CBT-I. Demographic differences emerged, with women and White participants reporting greater awareness of insomnia treatments than men and individuals from other racial groups. Age related differences were also observed, though, these varied by treatment approach.

This study identified major gaps in public awareness of CBT-I and highlighted disparities in treatment knowledge. Addressing these gaps is critical for improving treatment access and promoting CBT-I as a first-line, evidence-based treatment for insomnia.