Can improvements in sleep be used as an indicator of the wider benefits of Autogenic Training and CAM research in general?

Abstract 

Introduction and study aims

Poor sleep exacerbates health problems which in turn can affect sleep. Behavioural approaches to insomnia management are preferred to prescribed hypnotics. This article examines whether resolving sleep problems as a result of Autogenic Training (AT) can be used as a potential indicator of effectiveness for people with chronic health problems.

Methodology

In an observational study at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital, patients acted as waiting list controls before receiving standard 8 week group AT training. Data was collected on sleeping patterns, symptoms and general health.

Results

Of 153 participants with various health conditions completing the AT course, 11% presented with sleep problems as their main complaint, on further questioning 62% also had a sleep problem. Worry, stress, anxiety and depression were identified as the possible cause or trigger of sleep problems for 52% of patients. After an AT programme overall changes in sleep included: improvement in sleep onset latency (p=0.049), ability to fall asleep faster after night waking (p<0.001), waking more refreshed (p<0.001), and more energy on waking (p=0.019). Sleep improved irrespective of whether insomnia was their main presenting complaint.

Discussion/conclusions

Sleep problems were only one of the primary reason for patients’ referral to AT. However, AT improved sleep quality despite sleep not being the focus of the training or a common presenting complaint. These changes in wellbeing may not be captured in health research, but make a critical difference to patients and their health outcomes. Measuring sleep disturbances as a potential outcome indicator for health research should be considered.

Keywords: Autogenic Training, Sleep, Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders, Mind-Body Therapies, Outcome Assessment (Health Care)