In a study of 46 people with chronic insomnia, one group was trained in cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) techniques, including relaxation practices and stimulus (noise, light) control. Two other groups took either the sleeping pill zopiclone (Imovane) or a placebo every night.

Result: After six weeks, time spent awake dropped 52% in the CBT group compared with 4o/o in the zopiclone group and 16% in those taking a placebo.

Theory: CBT helps patients identify and change negative thoughts, which can be an underlying cause of insomnia.

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