Adaptation of a sleep hygiene intervention for individuals with poor sleep and their companions: Results of a randomized controlled pilot trial

Sleep is a major health issue for young adults. While sleep hygiene interventions have small-to-moderate effects, better outcomes might be achieved by delivering interventions individually to those reporting sleep difficulties, or in the presence of a supportive other or companion. To examine the feasibility, acceptability, and initial effects of an adapted sleep hygiene intervention for young adults with poor sleep, we conducted an ORBIT Phase IIb pilot randomized controlled trial (n = 51). Young adults with poor sleep were randomized to receive a sleep hygiene intervention individually or with a companion. Sleep patterns were measured at baseline and 4 weeks. Participants completed daily dairies and wore wearable devices for the month following the intervention. Attrition at follow-up was minimal (3.9%), and missing rates were low for diary data (8%), and in line with prior studies for wearable devices (14%). Participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the study, with no differences between study arms. Significant effects were found postintervention for all participants, indicating improved sleep quality (t = 6.14, P < .001), greater sleep duration (t = 3.8, P < .001), and reduced daytime sleepiness (t = 2.13, P = .039). There were no significant differences in sleep efficiency pre and postintervention, or between study arms for any sleep outcome based on self-reported and objective data. Results from this pilot provide evidence for the feasibility and acceptability of a sleep hygiene intervention for young adults and lay the groundwork for a larger, fully powered study.