Why we need to wake up to the fact that sleep is a big deal

The world of sleep is multifaceted and this World Sleep Day, we set out to understand how its impact on health and well-being is essential for addressing a wide array of physical, mental and emotional health issues

Sleeping for 10 or maybe even 14 hours may sound excessive. But Hollywood actress Dakota Johnson of Fifty Shades of Grey fame claims she can barely function with less than 10 hours of sleep. The 34-year-old star believes in prioritising sleep and dozing off for up to 14 hours. Her claim made headlines and prompted the response: How is it even possible to sleep for 14 hours?

In an interview on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Johnson clarified that she’s not a monster who demands to sleep hours on end. She stressed that she could easily sleep for 14 hours or more and even joked that if she took an Ambien, she would most likely wake up the next year. “I don’t have to take anything to sleep like that either, I can just sleep like that,” she quipped.

Sleep is essential to our well-being, influencing everything from brain development and immunity to metabolism. However, having a good night’s rest is both a privilege and a luxury. Achieving good quality sleep is more difficult for people with underlying health conditions, new parents, those living in conflict areas, underserved communities and more.

Above Sleep aids in the form of sleep trackers have been increasingly adopted by many, offering insights into sleep patterns and quality (Photo: Getty Images)

Sleep is a serious business. Our pursuit of a good night’s sleep has sparked a surge in the use of sleep aids, trackers, and even self-medication, raising concerns about orthosomnia—an unhealthy fixation on achieving the “perfect” sleep. Even meditation app, Calm partnered with Grammy award winner and pop sensation, Harry Styles to narrate a series of sleep stories called Dream With Me, inviting listeners—mainly adoring fans—to fall asleep to his soothing voice.

This article explores sleep beyond this focus, taking a multidimensional approach that acknowledges its interconnectedness with mental health and overall well-being. By delving into diverse aspects such as health, insomnia treatment, developmental considerations, and perinatal/postpartum sleep, uncovering a comprehensive understanding of achieving the perfect sleep.

Sleep and circadian rhythm

Maintaining good circadian health requires discipline in both sleep and activity schedules, including regular mealtimes. Additionally, keeping a balance of light exposure throughout the day is crucial.

Sleep and mental health

Sleep deprivation and disrupted circadian rhythms contribute to mental health issues while existing mental health struggles can also worsen sleep quality.

Sleep and parents

Nearly half of new parents experience insomnia during pregnancy and the first two years of postpartum. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia or CBT-i is a drug-free treatment which supports those experiencing insomnia to overcome sleep deprivation.

Sleep and relationships

A major reason for phone use before bed is maintaining connections with loved ones and staying informed. Constant connection can undermine the right to disconnect and negatively impact sleep quality. These sleep disruptions can also disrupt relationships between couples.

Above Sleep doesn’t just recharge our bodies; it can play a pivotal role in building stronger relationships (Photo: Getty Images)

Sleep and indigenous communities

‘Let’s Yarn About Sleep’ is Australia’s first sleep programme that addresses sleep problems in indigenous communities. It integrates scientific evidence on sleep health with Indigenous cultural and traditional knowledge to address behavioural sleep issues in teenagers.

Sleep and diabetes

Poor sleep throws off appetite hormones, increasing cravings and reducing activity, potentially making it harder to manage Type 2 diabetes.

Sleep and wearables

Sleep gadgets and wearables are useful in helping us to get quality sleep but they are more effective to measure our sleep duration, quality and timing. Use them to create effective sleep habits and to feel well-rested.

Sleep and productivity

A tech billionaire in India proposed a 70-hour working week to boost India’s economy. Longer hours don’t guarantee higher productivity. It will lead to workers sleeping less, harming their physical and mental health.

Shahirah Hamid is the commissioning editor at 360info, Southeast Asia. Originally published under Creative Commons by 360info.

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Sleep Wellbeing Health Sleeptech

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