ANXIETY AND INSOMNIA:THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

Abstract

Sleep is a fundamental basic need for maintaining an individual’s health and well-being. When sleep is altered, its functioning may be compromised, impairing daily functioning and contributing to the development of disorders related to insomnia. In this context, anxiety has a significant relationship with sleep-related difficulties, such as the presence of negative thoughts that lead to a state of alertness and may interfere with relaxation. Considering this, the present study aims to understand the relationship between anxiety and insomnia, as well as to identify how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can contribute to the management of these symptoms. Based on a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, studies published over the last 10 years in Portuguese and English were considered. The analyzed studies indicated anxiety as a contributing factor to insomnia. CBT strategies were highlighted as an aid in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving sleep quality. It is concluded that understanding this relationship is important for the development of interventions aimed at improving sleep quality.