COVID-19–Related Insomnia Populations Research and Management Strategies: A Review

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has affected the quality of sleep for various populations, causing anxiety and depression worldwide. COVID-19-related insomnia (COVIDRI) appears to be more common in certain populations, including females, urban residents and other individuals who reside in high-risk COVID-19-related areas, lack higher socioeconomic and educational levels, have a history of underlying mental illness, have no access to social support and work, or have been mandated for isolation. Among vulnerable populations, pregnant women, adolescents and children are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression, which leads to irregular sleep-wake cycles and significantly poor sleep quality. Insomnia in COVID-19 patients is associated with decreased immune levels, excessive psychological stress and severe anxiety. The COVIDRI incidence and severity among frontline healthcare workers is high, especially among females and those working in isolation wards and intensive care units. The factors related to COVIDRI for college students during home study are stress from upcoming graduation, disharmonious family relationships and inadaptability to online education. For military personnels, anxiety and depression are the main causes of poor sleep quality. Based on the characteristics of different populations, active Chinese and Western medications, non-drug therapy, psychological counseling and suitable sleep management are vital measures to strengthen immunity, alleviate insomnia and limit recurrence.