P126 Sleep Regularity and Circadian Alignment Intervention for Improving Mental Health in Athletes (SCIMA): Study Protocol

Abstract Introduction Sleep, circadian rhythms, and mental health are reciprocally interlinked. The SCIMA protocol was developed for this study through an iterative co-design process, involving guidance from athletes through qualitative interviews, as well as recommendations from experts. The following protocol aims to a) develop and pilot this intervention in athletes b) determine whether changes in sleep regularity and circadian alignment can lead to improved mental health. Methods Approximately 40 athletes will be allocated to the intervention condition. The intervention will be conducted over a period of 4 weeks as well as a prior 2-week baseline assessment. The main guidelines of SCIMA are to establish a regular sleep–wake schedule that has been informed by individual circadian biology. The intervention contains additional components to assist in maintaining this routine, including group psychoeducation, weekly behavioural coaching, light therapy and blue light blocking glasses. Mental health, DLMO, performance and sleep will be assessed pre and post intervention and mood will be tracked through Ecological Momentary Assessment twice daily. Adherence to the intervention will be measured through goal attainment scaling. Wrist worn monitors and daily sleep diaries will be used to track sleep over the baseline/intervention period. Discussion There are currently no intervention studies on circadian alignment and sleep regularity for athletes’ mental health. Existing research is mostly cross-sectional and subjective, lacking evidence for causation. Clarifying the relationship between sleep, circadian rhythms, and mental health in professional athletes across different sports and individual characteristics will enhance our understanding of how sleep and circadian health affect their mental well-being.