Non-Pharmacological Interventions to Improve Sleep Quality: Research Protocol

Background: Sleep quality is a key factor for overall health and well-being. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as sleep hygiene and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have shown promise in improving sleep quality without the side effects associated with pharmacological treatments. However, there is a need for a detailed systematic review of the evidence regarding the effectiveness of these interventions and the methods used to assess sleep quality. Material and methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were retrieved from PubMed and Cochrane databases, focusing on randomized controlled trials published in the last 20 years. The included studies evaluated sleep hygiene protocols and used standardized methods to assess sleep quality, such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results: The findings indicate that non-pharmacological interventions, particularly CBT and sleep hygiene, lead to significant improvements in sleep quality compared to control groups. The reviewed studies reported better PSQI scores and a reduction in daytime sleepiness levels. Conclusion: This systematic review concludes that non-pharmacological interventions are effective in improving sleep quality, with CBT being one of the most recommended due to its sustained effects over time and the absence of serious side effects.