silvercloud sleep issues programme.pdf

Sleep Issues

Programme

This SilverCloud® by Amwell® programme is designed for individuals experiencing sleeping difficulties, either independently or co-existing with another condition. The programme aims to relieve symptoms by:

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This programme aligns with NICE guidance on managing insomnia¹.

Therapeutic Concepts

Psychoeducation

The cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) cycle is highlighted in 2, 3. Users gain an increased understanding of sleep and sleep disorders and examine the behaviours, beliefs and attitudes that can impact the sleep/wake cycle.

Behavioural techniques

Sleep restriction provides a set of rules to follow to regulate the sleep-wake schedule by restricting time in bed to only the sleep window. Please note that due to its Sleep Restriction component, this programme is contraindicated for those with bipolar disorder, untreated sleep apnoea, parasomnias, and seizure disorder⁴.

Relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is taught to reduce the impact of physical and cognitive tension on sleep. Users are encouraged to practice this technique throughout the programme.

How it works

The structure and content of the Sleep Issues programme follow the evidence-based principles of CBT, guiding users to reframe thinking patterns and build coping skills.

In keeping with the principles of CBT, which endorse a structured outline and a goal-oriented focus, each module contains sleep-specific information, interactive activities, homework suggestions and personal stories.

Summary of programme modules:

The programme is available 24/7, allowing users to access content at a time that suits them. It can be accessed using a phone, tablet or computer and it can be tailored to suit the needs of the individual.

Getting Started Educates the user on sleep and sleep difficulties. The user is also introduced to CBT and how the Thoughts, Feelings, Behaviour (TFB) cycle can be useful in understanding sleep problems.

Sleeping Less To Sleep Better The user is introduced to the sleep restriction tool* and its role in improving sleep efficiency.

Good Sleep Habits Helps the user become aware of helpful and unhelpful sleep habits and supports the user to develop a healthy bedtime routine, which may include guided relaxation.

Improving Sleep Association Using the My Improving Sleep Association Plan, the user learns how to prepare a suitable environment for sleep.

Managing Thoughts & Worries The user learns techniques for managing thoughts and worries that impact the sleep cycle.

Keeping Your Sleep Cycle Healthy Prepares the user for coming to the end of the programme and maintaining a healthy sleep cycle in the future.

References:

  1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2024). Managing Insomnia. NICE.
  2. Baglioni C. et al. (2020) The European Academy for cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia: an initiative of the european insomnia network to promote implementation and dissemination of treatment. J. Sleep Res. 2020;29(2).
  3. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2022) Insomnia. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. NICE.
  4. Perlis, M. L., Aloia, M., & Kuhn, B. (Eds.). (2010). Behavioral treatments for sleep disorders: A comprehensive primer of behavioral sleep medicine interventions. Academic Press.
  5. Wogan R. et al. (2021). Internet-delivered CBT intervention (Space for Sleep) for insomnia in a routine care setting: Results from an open pilot study. Internet interventions, 26: 100443.
  6. Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy. New York: Basics and beyond. Guilford Publication.
  7. Maerov, P. J. (2006). Demystifying CBT: Effective, easy-to-use treatment for depression and anxiety. Current Psychiatry, 5(8), 26.

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