Efficacy of using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia to improve athlete sleep quality: A sleep intervention study

Sleep is one of the most important tools elite athletes have for recovery, performance, and mental health — yet poor sleep is surprisingly common among competitive and pre-elite athletes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold-standard treatment for sleep problems in the general population, but it hasn't been well studied in athletes specifically. This study from the University of Sydney is testing whether a structured CBT-I program can improve sleep quality and mental wellbeing in athletes competing at elite or pre-elite levels. CBT-I involves learning techniques to change thoughts and behaviours around sleep, without relying on medication. You may be eligible if you are at least 16 years old, are a student athlete at Sydney Uni Sport and Fitness or a high-performance athlete identified through a National Sporting Organisation, speak fluent English, and are willing to complete the program. People who are pregnant, have chronic pain, autism spectrum disorder, or other neurological conditions are not eligible. This research could help more athletes perform and recover at their best while also protecting their mental health.