Anxiety: A correlate of persistent sleep disturbance in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence

Authors

• MC Krumlauf
• AT Brooks
• L Yang
• VA Ramchandani
• ML Schwandt
• GR Wallen

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol dependence is often accompanied by co-morbidities, including sleep disturbances and anxiety. Sleep disturbances are common among individuals who are alcohol-dependent and often associated with relapse. Methods: In a cohort of research participants enrolled on an inpatient alcohol treatment protocol, 90.1% reported baseline sleep disturbances. In this sub-analysis, those with ongoing sleep disturbances (OSD) after the first month of admission were compared to those whose sleep disturbances resolved (SDR). Sleep quality was determined using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) monthly, twice-daily diaries (measuring sleep duration and quality and mood variables), and continuous actigraphy (Actiwatch 2, Respironics). The Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS), measuring anxiety and depression, was administered weekly. Linear mixed models and t-tests were used for analysis. Results: Sample (n=75) is mostly male (66.7%), 43.66 (± 9.28) years old, and African-American (45.5%). Participants were classified SDR if PSQI score at day 28 was ≤5 (n=34), and OSD if the score was >5 (n=42). Although anxiety levels improved in both groups, OSD group reported 153% higher anxiety levels compared to SDR group (5.53 vs. 2.19, p=.004). Mental and physical exhaustion and tiredness decreased while sleep quality improved in both groups; however, self-reported sleep quality was 20% higher in the SDR group at one month (7.03 vs. 5.85, p=.0002). Conclusion: Understanding sub-groups of inpatients undergoing alcoholism treatment could allow for interventions targeting individuals at highest risk for sustained sleep disturbances and possibly relapse. Individuals with higher self-reported anxiety levels may benefit from interventions targeted to improve sleep and anxiety.

Scientific Focus Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences

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