Multidisciplinary Approach to the Treatment of Insomnia and Comorbid Sleep Apnea

The overall goal of this project is to determine the efficacy of a multidisciplinary treatment model for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and comorbid Insomnia. Specific Aim 1: To determine the efficacy of a treatment model combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Continued Positive Airway Pressure(CPAP) for individuals with OSA and comorbid insomnia. Specific Aim 2: To determine if there are relative benefits in the sequence of treatment initiation. Specific Aim 3: To examine the mechanisms between insomnia symptoms and CPAP adherence.

OSA is a sleep-related breathing disorder that is growing in prevalence and is associated with negative cardiovascular consequences and adverse events from excessive daytime sleepiness. Insomnia is a frequently co-occurring sleep disorder that adds significant morbidity and is a potential barrier to adherence of OSA treatment. It is currently unknown if direct treatment of insomnia will enhance outcomes of OSA treatment. The investigators at the Rush Sleep Disorders Center have developed an approach that combines CBT for insomnia delivered by a psychologist with CPAP therapy managed by a physician. Building upon preliminary data collected in the clinic, the investigators seek to test the efficacy and mechanisms of this multidisciplinary model against the standard practice of treating OSA using CPAP alone.