The first treatment that experts typically recommend for insomnia, even when it is due to anxiety, is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Learning how to form better sleep habits may also help. Some people choose to take medications for insomnia, but these can lead to side effects and be habit-forming.

Treating anxiety

Anxiety can cause insomnia, and lack of sleep can trigger or worsen anxiety. Treating your anxiety can also help you have a better quality of life during your sleeping and waking hours. Things to try include:

  • Meditation or relaxation exercises
  • Getting more physical activity
  • Talk therapy
  • Group therapy or support groups
  • Learning how to better manage stress

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Colleen Ehrnstrom's profile picture
Dr. Colleen Ehrnstrom, PhD

Dr. Colleen Ehrnstrom is a licensed clinical psychologist with a specialty practice in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Areas of expertise include insomnia and other sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.

Dr. Ehrnstrom is not a medical provider and is not providing any recommendations regarding medications. Rather, she is sharing and reviewing the research as it relates to education when learning how best to treat insomnia.

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