Sweet Dreams: The Surprising Sleep Statistics from Mattress Firm’s Latest Survey
Spring is in the air, and with it comes longer days and shorter nights. But according to the latest Sleep Index Survey by Mattress Firm, conducted by The Harris Poll, even as the world around us changes, one thing remains constant: our love-hate relationship with sleep.
The Good News: Most Americans Get Enough Zzz’s
51% of U.S. adults reported getting 7 hours or more of sleep per night, which is the recommended amount for most adults, according to the National Sleep Foundation. That’s a solid improvement from previous years and a testament to the fact that more and more people are prioritizing their sleep.
The Bad News: Sleep Quality is Still a Struggle
But while the number of hours we’re logging in bed might be on the rise, the quality of that sleep is another story. A whopping 62% of adults reported having trouble falling or staying asleep at least once a week. And for 35% of us, it’s a nightly struggle.
Seasonal Changes: A Wake-Up Call for Better Sleep?
The survey also shed some light on how seasonal changes impact our sleep. It turns out that 43% of Americans reported that their sleep is affected by daylight saving time, with 22% reporting that they lose an hour of sleep as a result. And while some of us might be excited about the extra hour of sunlight in the evening, it can also mean later bedtimes and earlier wake-up calls, which can wreak havoc on our circadian rhythms.
So, What Does This Mean for Me?
If you’re one of the many Americans struggling with sleep quality, don’t despair! There are plenty of things you can do to improve your sleep hygiene. Here are a few tips:
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
- Avoid screens (including your phone) for at least an hour before bedtime.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book.
- Make sure your sleeping environment is cool, dark, and quiet.
And What About the World?
On a larger scale, the findings of the Sleep Index Survey underscore the importance of prioritizing sleep as a public health issue. Poor sleep quality can lead to a host of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even premature death. So, as a society, we need to do more to address the root causes of poor sleep, such as stress, anxiety, and environmental factors.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, while it’s great news that more Americans are getting the recommended amount of sleep, we still have a long way to go when it comes to improving sleep quality. By taking small steps to improve our sleep hygiene and advocating for policies that prioritize sleep, we can create a world where everyone wakes up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Sweet dreams, everyone!
