The One-week Insomnia Cure

May 1, 2018

According to the American Academy for Sleep Medicine, at least ten percent of U.S. adults suffer from a chronic insomnia disorder. Many more experience episodic insomnia or other sleep disturbances. Using an explicit set of six criteria that discern temporary sleep issues from true insomnia, Ellis (director, Northumbria Ctr. for Sleep Research, UK) explores the three main types of insomnia, identifying which kinds will respond best to the seven-night treatment program outlined in this title. Once a diagnosis is made, the author lays out a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and interpersonal therapy, backing up this treatment plan with empathy, good humor, and plenty of science and case studies. Fortunately, he offers solid sleep hygiene advice for those who are not candidates for this specific program; including full discussions of sleep medication and its side effects and the help sleep clinics can and cannot provide. VERDICT A serious study of a widespread problem that is actually enjoyable to read. Sufferers of sleep issues of all types will find value here, and those with chronic insomnia might just have discovered the cure they've been seeking.--Janet Tapper, Univ. of Western States Lib., Portland, OR

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