New Sleep Poll: Healthy Sleepers Are Healthier People
If sleep suddenly seems like a luxury in your nonstop schedule of work, responsibilities – and even recreation – you’re part of a growing group. Many Americans don’t get enough rest.
But what you may not realize is that a lack of sleep could be seriously stifling health, well-being, and productivity.
A new poll by the National Sleep Foundation highlights the striking disparities in the health and quality of life of those who get enough sleep and those who don’t. People in good health are two times more likely than those in poor health to work efficiently – thanks to a good night’s sleep. They’re also more likely to exercise and eat a healthy diet.
People who sleep too few hours a night reported they are too tired to do efficient work, to exercise or to eat well. Two out of 10 of those polled said they sleep less than 6 hours a night.
And consider this: an increasing number of those surveyed are having trouble sleeping. Since 2001, the rate has jumped 13 percent. Also in that time, the number of respondents who get less than 6 hours of sleep has increased from 13% to 20 %.
What about those who do get 8 hours? Their ranks dropped from 38% to 28%.
With health care reform on the horizon for 2009-2010, we hope sleep health will get the recognition it deserves. After all, taking steps to get a better night’s sleep is a cost-effective and simple avenue to overall better health.
Poll Link: [National Sleep Foundation]
