Effects of a guided digital intervention on sleep and mental health outcomes in university students – a randomized controlled trial

Effectiveness of a Guided Self-help Intervention for Improving Sleep in University Students, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06023693, prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on August 3rd, 2023. Statement of Significance Sleep problems are highly prevalent among university students and are associated with poor mental health, functioning, and academic outcomes. Students struggle to maintain a 24-hour rhythm which is why we enhanced a digital CBT-I intervention with elements targeting the circadian rhythm. Although there is considerable evidence to support the effectiveness of CBT-I in various populations, this study shows that digital CBT-I is not superior to digital psychoeducation and sleep monitoring in students. Both groups showed notable improvements, likely reflecting active elements in both conditions. Low adherence may also have diminished the between-group effects. Future research should explore the potential of brief digital sleep interventions, barriers to adherence, and investigate which intervention components drive improvements in sleep.