Any experience or recommendations for online CBT-i programs
I've been struggling with insomnia. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea over a year ago. I thought using the CPAP would solve - or at least help with - the insomnia. No such luck. I've tried sleep aids like Ambien and extended release melatonin. I just don't like the daytime sleepiness I experienced with them. I've read that CBT-i can be helpful. It's difficult to find a local therapist who has training/experience, so I'm looking at online resources. I've found three - Sleepio, Sleep Reset, and Stellar Sleep. Has anyone tried one of these? What was your experience?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Sleep Health Support Group.
@catlover64
Mayo Clinic has developed an e module to help patients improve the quality and quantity of their sleep. You can access this module at: https://mccmscontent.mayo.edu/PatientEducation/PatientLearning/index.html
Other app to look at was developed by VA: https://mobile.va.gov/app/cbt-i-coach
I did Mayo online class, have not tried VA app.
I have tried few ideas from app, but also take Trazodone to help sleep. My hardest task is eliminating watching TV in bedroom. I am so use to falling asleep watching TV, but then wake up in middle of night with TV on. I just started using a timer on TV. I took a timer that I use with Christmas lights and plug into TV. When go to bed, set for 2 hours and TV then shuts off. I found it prevents waking up in middle of night.
Is your problem falling asleep or staying asleep?
Thank you for sharing the e-module and the VA app. I'll look into both of those.
Funny you should mention Trazodone. My doctor prescribed that for me. It was a 50 mg dose. I slept well the one night I took it, but I was so sleepy/groggy the next day. I ended up taking a 2-1/2 hour nap. I still felt out of it after waking up. I haven't taken it since. I can't afford to feel that way and go to work. Did you experience any side effects like that when you first started?
My issue is staying asleep. I tend to wake up around 3:30 and can't get back to sleep.
@catlover64
With Trazodone, it is sometimes a timing or dosage issue. I am not medical professional, can just share my experience. My provider suggest half of 50 mg pills if taking late in evening or have problems with being sluggish next day.
I was not consistent when first started taking thinking I was so tired, I did not need. But then I would wake in middle of night, to late to take med and could not get back to sleep. So, now I take around 10 PM and wake up around 5 AM. My problem with Trazodone is sometimes I get very intense dreams. I guess it is a sign I am having deep sleep.
My provider also prescribed Gabapentin for restless legs that I also take at night. The combination seems to work for me.
Check with your provider if OK to cut dosage and see if you tolerate that better.