EFFICACY OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY FOR INSOMNIA (CBT-I) IN IMPROVING SLEEP QUALITY AMONG COLLEGIATE ATHLETES- A REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

Insomnia is a prevalent issue among collegiate athletes, negatively impacting their performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a widely recognized, evidence-based intervention that addresses the underlying cognitive and behavioral factors contributing to insomnia. This review examines the efficacy of CBT-I in improving sleep quality among collegiate athletes, focusing on recent studies conducted between 2020 and 2025. Collegiate athletes face unique challenges, such as rigorous training schedules, academic demands, and travel, which often disrupt sleep patterns. Research suggests that CBT-I can significantly reduce sleep onset latency, improve sleep efficiency, and decrease insomnia severity in this population. Additionally, CBT-I has been associated with enhanced daytime functioning, reduced anxiety, and improved athletic performance. Despite the positive outcomes, barriers to implementation, such as time constraints and individualized needs, remain. The review highlights the potential of CBT-I as a non-pharmacological intervention for improving sleep among collegiate athletes and underscores the need for further research to optimize its delivery and efficacy within this specific group. The key terms used in this review are Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Insomnia, Athletes, Pain, Physiotherapy Management and Sleep.