Can Digital CBT-I Be as a Scalable Workplace Solution for Insomnia-Related Productivity Losses?

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-19-2025

Publication Title

Sleep

Abstract

Introduction: Previous research demonstrated that insomnia significantly impairs work productivity, leading to substantial economic losses. Traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is effective in alleviating insomnia symp toms, but largely inaccessible due to the scarcity of trained pro viders and associated costs. Digital CBT-I (dCBT-I) offers a scalable and accessible solution, showing evidence in reducing insomnia severity. When investigating dCBT-I’s effect on work productivity, existing studies have shown promise, but also have limitations, including homogeneous samples and insuffi cient follow-up data. This study examines whether dCBT-I can lead to meaningful improvements in overall work productivity. Methods: The 658 participants in this study met the DSM-5 cri teria for insomnia. Participants were randomized to complete six core sessions of dCBT-I (n=358), or receive six weekly emails of sleep education (n=300). Work productivity was measured using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire specified to a specific health problem: insomnia (WPAI:SHP). The WPAI:SHP questionnaire was administered pre-treatment, post-treatment, and one-year follow up. Total work impairment was the primary outcome. Secondary analyses included presen teeism and absenteeism subscales. A meaningful improvement was operationalized as 15% improvement, which corresponds to 6 hours in a 40 hour work week. Results: Total work impairment was reduced 16.5% (b = -16.5 ± 2.7 SE, p <.001) more in the dCBT-I condition compared to the SE condition at post-treatment. At the one-year follow up, reduction in total work impairment remained 12.9% (b = -12.9 ± 2.8 SE, p <.001) greater than the SE condition. Sensitivity analysis indicated dCBT-I participants were 2.7 times more likely to achieve a 15% reduction in work impairment (95% CI [1.7, 4.3]) post-treatment. No significant effects were found for absenteeism in the secondary analysis, but participants in the dCBT-I group were 2.2 times more likely to achieve a 10% reduction in presenteeism (95% CI [1.4, 3.5]). Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential for dCBT-I as a scalable solution to rescuing insomnia-related productiv ity losses. Our results demonstrated that dCBT-I may recover almost a full day of work productivity. Integrating dCBT-I into workplace occupational health programs may help companies recoup insomnia-related productivity losses while improving employees’ sleep health.

Volume

48

Issue

Supplement_1

First Page

A89

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