15 August 2006

Researcher investigates insomnia's daytime symptoms

The problems people with insomnia suffer when they're out of bed and going about their daily business is the subject of a University of Canberra research project.

Psychology researcher Heather Lyall is part of a three-University Australian Research Council-funded project weighing the relative effectiveness of self-help and face-to-face treatments for insomnia.

Sleep problems are very common, with around 15 per cent of Australians likely to suffer chronic insomnia lasting at least six months and more than a third of adults affected at least occasionally.

In addition to recruiting participants and delivering a group treatment program for the ARC project, Ms Lyall is investigating the often-overlooked daytime symptoms of insomnia.

"There is more to insomnia than simply not being able to go to sleep, it can have a significant impact on someone's daytime functioning," she said.

"Insomnia is associated with impaired work and social functioning, poorer physical health and lower quality of life.

"People with insomnia report problems with concentration, irritability and fatigue, but after their insomnia has been successfully treated, there is little research into whether or not these symptoms have gone away.

"We know how to treat insomnia and we're working on cheaper and more effective programs, but it's not enough just helping people get to sleep, we need to make sure a good night's sleep is helping them get on with their daily lives."

Ms Lyall is hoping to recruit research volunteers with chronic insomnia: people who have been having sleep problems at least three nights a week for at least six months.

Eligible applicants will be allocated to either a self-help sleep improvement program or a six-week group program held at the University of Canberra. There is no cost to participants for being part of the research project.

To volunteer call: 6201 5262

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

For further information about Monitor Online, contact the editor: monitor@canberra.edu.au

Copyright © 2005 University of Canberra

Last Updated on August 1, 2005