Improving Sleep in Youth with Mental Health Disorders: A Quality Improvement Project

Abstract

Sleep problems are prevalent among youth with mental health disorders. Consistent with national statistics, sleep problems were present in approximately 80% of the patients attending a children’s hospital psychiatric partial hospitalization program in the Midwestern United States. The aim of this quality improvement (QI) project was to decrease sleep problems in youth with mental health disorders. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was administered to patients ages 12–18 with mental health disorders to screen for sleep problems. Patients identified by the PSQI as having a sleep problem, and their parents, were given verbal and written education on sleep hygiene practices and stimulus control. Each patient participated in a cognitive behavioral therapy group that included relaxation therapy. Evidence-based interventions used to improve sleep were reinforced daily by providers. Self-reported sleep quality, as measured by the PSQI, was improved in 95% of the patients participating in this QI project. Adequately screening for and treating sleep problems in youth with mental health disorders can lead to improved outcomes.