Sleeping better

A study looking at sleep therapy for those at high risk of developing psychosis or already experiencing psychosis.

What is the study about?
The study is being carried out because sleep problems are extremely common in people who are at high risk of psychosis or already experiencing psychosis, yet these difficulties often go untreated even though they can worsen mood, thinking, and psychotic symptoms. Previous small studies by the research team have shown that a brief psychological sleep therapy can significantly improve sleep for this group, but larger trials are needed to understand the wider benefits. The aim of this study is to test whether adding this sleep therapy to usual care helps people sleep better, and whether improving sleep also leads to better mood, fewer psychotic experiences, and improved day to day functioning.

What is involved?
Taking part in the study involves completing a baseline assessment lasting approximately two hours; which includes questionnaires about sleep, mood, and daily activities, along with some tasks that look at memory, concentration, and problem‑solving. After this, participants will be randomly allocated to either receive their usual care or receive usual care plus the study’s sleep therapy, which is a personalised cognitive behavioural therapy offered over roughly eight sessions across twelve weeks. Follow‑up assessments will take place at 12 weeks and 24 weeks, each similar in length to the baseline assessment, and some participants may also be invited to take part in a one‑hour interview at the end of the study to share their experiences.

Who can take part?
The participant will be:

  • aged 14 years or above
  • someone with a diagnosis of non‑affective psychosis (e.g. schizophrenia), or someone who meets criteria for high risk of psychosis on the CAARMS assessment
  • experiencing current sleep problems (an Insomnia Severity Index score above 14) and wanting help to improve their sleep
  • willing and able to give informed consent, or able to get assent from a parent/guardian if aged 14–15 years old

How can people get involved?
Find out more and how to take part by contacting Abimbola Wilson (07970 614712) or Shaun Bell (07980 958802) or email research.lypft@nhs.net