Investigating racing thoughts in patients with insomnia

Cognitive Hyperarousal in Insomnia Disorder

Observational University Hospital, Strasbourg, France · NCT04752254

This study is testing how racing thoughts affect people with insomnia compared to healthy individuals and those with bipolar disorder to see if these thoughts make insomnia worse.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 78 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Strasbourg, France Academic / other
Locations1 site (Strasbourg)
Trial IDNCT04752254 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the role of racing thoughts in individuals suffering from insomnia disorder. Using a self-report questionnaire called the Racing and Crowded Thoughts Questionnaire, the research will compare scores between adults with primary insomnia, healthy individuals, and patients experiencing manic episodes of bipolar disorder. The study will also examine how RCTQ scores vary throughout the day and assess the impact of racing thoughts on the severity of insomnia compared to other factors like worry and rumination.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 70 with a diagnosis of chronic primary insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients with secondary insomnia or those under psychotropic treatment other than hypnotics may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with insomnia by addressing cognitive factors that contribute to their condition.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on insomnia are common, the specific focus on racing thoughts in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Major subject from 18 to 70 years old)
* with a diagnosis of chronic primary insomnia according to the criteria of ICSD-3
* Subject not having expressed his opposition, after information, to the reuse of his data for the purposes of this research

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subject having expressed opposition to participating in the study
* Subject under guardianship or guardianship
* Subject under safeguard of justice
* Patient with secondary insomnia (OSA, circadian rhythm disorder, severe restless legs syndrome, bipolar disorder, ADD +/- H)
* Subject under psychotropic treatment other than hypnotics
* Incomplete data concerning the main endpoint

Where this trial is running

Strasbourg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Insomnia DisorderInsomniaHyperarousalRuminationRacing thoughts
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.