How Personality Traits Influence the Development and Persistence of Insomnia

Recent research from the University of São Paulo's Faculty of Medicine highlights a significant link between certain personality characteristics and the likelihood of developing and maintaining insomnia. The study underscores that individuals exhibiting high levels of neuroticism — characterized by emotional instability and a tendency toward negative feelings — are more prone to experience persistent sleep difficulties. Conversely, those with high openness to new experiences tend to report fewer symptoms of insomnia.

The investigation focused on 595 volunteers aged 18 to 59, comparing insomniacs diagnosed by sleep specialists with a control group without sleep complaints. Using a comprehensive questionnaire designed to assess the Big Five personality traits—extroversion, neuroticism, agreeableness, openness to experience, and conscientiousness—researchers identified that insomniacs scored notably higher in neuroticism and lower in openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness.

High neuroticism appears to act as a predisposing factor, increasing susceptibility to insomnia, especially when coupled with symptoms of anxiety. The study found that anxiety mediates the relationship between neuroticism and sleep problems, suggesting that managing anxiety might be key in treating insomnia associated with neurotic traits. Notably, depression was not found to play a significant mediating role.

These findings suggest that understanding a patient's personality profile can be critical in developing personalized treatment strategies. For example, addressing underlying anxiety in highly neurotic patients may improve sleep outcomes. Currently, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard treatment, but there is a need for more mental health professionals trained in sleep therapy, especially in Brazil.

The researchers advocate for integrated, transdiagnostic treatment protocols that combine behavioral and psychological techniques to address insomnia. Recognizing the influence of personality traits opens the door to more tailored and effective interventions, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality of life.

This research emphasizes that personality assessments should become a routine part of insomnia management, promoting a broader understanding of the disorder and fostering the development of more personalized therapeutic approaches.