Instructions for stimulus control therapy

1. Patient goes to bed only when sleepy.

2. If not asleep within about 20 min, patient gets out of bed and engages in relaxing activity.

3. Patient returns to bed only when sleepy.

4. If patient again does not fall asleep within 20 min, repeat as necessary.

5. Wake-up time remains the same every day (regardless of number of hours asleep).

6. Daytime naps must be avoided.

7. Bed is used only for sleeping (not for reading, paying bills, or watching television).