Final answer:
The treatment for acute insomnia should focus on sleep hygiene and stimulus control rather than immediately turning to medications. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is also an effective treatment. Medications, if used, should be prescribed judiciously due to risks of dependency and should be carefully chosen based on the individual's health profile.
Step-by-step explanation:
The approach to acute insomnia should include sleep hygiene and stimulus control techniques. Sleep hygiene involves establishing a consistent sleep schedule, making sure the sleep environment is comfortable, and limiting exposure to stimulants like caffeine. Stimulus control is about associating the bed with sleep and not with other activities that could increase arousal like watching television or working. While medications can sometimes be used for insomnia, they should be considered carefully due to potential dependence and alterations to the sleep cycle. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective non-pharmacologic intervention for insomnia, addressing cognitive processes and problematic behaviors contributing to sleeplessness. Example medications, when necessary and prescribed by a physician, may include over-the-counter sleep aids or certain prescription medications like sedative-hypnotics (but not typically opioids or antipsychotics).