Mindfulness-Based Strategies for Improving Sleep in People with Psychiatric Disorders

Abstract

Purpose of the Review To review the recent literature on mindfulness-based strategies for improving self-report and objective measures of sleep, in individuals with psychiatric disorders. Recent Findings Currently, research provides some support for the use of mindfulness-based interventions to improve sleep amongst individuals with psychiatric comorbidities. The strongest evidence was for the use of standardized programs, particularly for improving sleep in anxiety and depressive disorders. There is a paucity of well-controlled studies using validated subjective or objective measures of sleep. As these interventions were not specifically designed to target sleep, observed improvements may be an indirect consequence of reduced psychiatric symptoms. Summary There is insufficient research into the application of mindfulness-based strategies to improve sleep or treat sleep disorders in people with psychiatric disorders. Well-controlled studies using standardized, mindfulness-based interventions developed to target sleep, such as mindfulness-based therapy for insomnia, may optimize the potential benefits of mindfulness for sleep in psychiatric populations.

Evaluation of Autonomic Nervous System Function During Sleep by Mindful Breathing Using a Tablet Device: Randomized Controlled Trial

“…In their free-text responses, participants stated that they awoke feeling refreshed and calmer, which made it easier to sleep, and felt that they slept better. Mindfulness is effective against insomnia and mental illness [ 35 ]. The results of a subjective evaluation of only those who performed mindful breathing exercises suggested that these exercises not only improved sleep quality but also had a positive effect on mood after waking and falling asleep.…”