MYTH: SLEEP IS A WASTE OF TIME. TRUTH: TIME IS A WASTE WITHOUT SLEEP.
Latest research commissioned by the Sleep Health Foundation shows that our “24/7” lifestyles are having massive impacts on our sleep, health and ability to function.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide and the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health Research yesterday reported their finding of the ‘2016 Sleep Health Survey of Australian Adults’ to the Sleep Health Foundation (SHF)1.
The results are staggering in the extent of sleep problems and the effects that these sleep problems are having on work performance and risks.
Inadequate sleep is now affecting 33-45% of Australian adults and it extends across all age groups. Three-quarters of people that manage less than 5½ hours of sleep are reporting daytime impairment or sleep related symptoms (76%).
Mute caught up with sleep expert, Nancy H Rothstein, The Sleep Ambassador, who helps global organisations look at the impact sleep has in their workplace. “In our 24/7 culture, we have lost respect for sleep. Our biology has not changed. Our behaviour has and it’s playing havoc with our sleep, compromising our health and ability to function well,” says Rothstein.
Importantly, the SHF Report also highlighted 25% of men and 17% of women suffering from frequent, loud snoring. The survey showed that 70% of those snorers reported daytime impairment and other sleep-related symptoms.
This has impacted productivity in the workplace, as 17% acknowledged they have missed work due to being sleepy as well as 17% admitting to falling asleep on the job.
“Sleep is not a luxury but an essential requirement for life. As you sleep, your body and brain are busy at work restoring and rejuvenating so your waking hours are more productive and healthy,” comments Rothstein.
It is now recognised that short sleep reduces natural immune function, which can cause disease (Irwin et al. FASEB J 1996;10:643-53.) Concerningly, comparison of results from a similar survey by The Sleep Health Foundation in 2010, shows increases in the prevalence of sleep problems.
If your sleep is disturbed then it’s best to seek the advice of a GP or sleep physician. For simple snoring related to nasal obstruction such as a blocked nose at night, narrow nasal passages or deviations, It’s worth trying Mute to open the nasal airways. Having a clearer nose at night may lead to improved mood, concentration and memory during the day. All good reasons to ‘Mute’ your slumber problems, including snoring. You can find out what size fits you best here (ultra-soft Mute comes in three sizes), or if you are a first-time user, you may want to try the Mute trial pack when you hop over to the Buy Now page.
1. A full copy of the Report can be viewed here: http://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/pdfs/surveys/SleepHealthFoundation-Survey.pdf
IMPORTANT: Mute nasal device is not for the treatment of sleep apnea. If you think that your snoring may be a symptom of sleep apnea, you should consult your doctor or a sleep specialist.
