Top

What If CBTi Didn’t Work?

Sleepwell / CBTi / What If CBTi Didn’t Work?

Whether you stopped a CBTi program early or completed one without seeing the improvement you expected, CBTi may still help. Before giving up on CBTi, consider the following possibilities and what you can do next.

Bad timing: Travel, illness, caregiving, or an unpredictable schedule can stall your progress. Re-start your current program or start another one when you’re ready to fully engage.

Other sleep problems: Sleep apnea, restless legs, and other sleep problems can limit the impact of CBTi. Once these are treated, CBTi can be tried again. See your healthcare professional to discuss other possible sleep problems and their treatments.

Format: CBTi is available in several formats, including self-help books, digital programs, group programs, and one-to-one therapy. If one format wasn’t a good fit for you, consider trying another. While the core components are similar, different formats vary in the amount of guidance, support, and personalization they provide.

Too short: If you’re around 4 weeks into CBTi, keep using all the CBTi components for 4 more weeks. If you’re not satisfied after 8 weeks, try a different CBTi program.

Visit the Sleepwell Recommends page for recommended programs and how to find CBTi therapists.

Should I consider sleeping pills?

Sleeping pills are recommended only for short-term insomnia for less than 2 weeks. If you decide to start one, plan for how long to use it and how to safely stop. You can continue CBTi during a short course of sleeping pills.

Not sure what to do next? Talk with your health care professional.