ResMed has today unveiled the findings of its fifth annual Global Sleep Survey. With insights from 30,026 respondents across 13 markets, the study underscores a widespread global sleep crisis, with people losing an average of nearly three nights of restorative sleep each week.
Although awareness of sleep’s significance is on the rise, countless individuals still struggle in silence, caught in a relentless cycle of fatigue. The study shows that globally, nearly one in four respondents (22%) resign themselves to poor sleep rather than seeking support. This is true for India, too. The hidden crisis extends its reach into every aspect of life – disrupting work, straining relationships, and taking a toll on mental well-being. Given its widespread impact, there is an urgent call for greater awareness and proactive measures to address sleep health.
Struggling to Sleep, Hesitant to Act
The study showed that 49% of Indians reported struggling to fall asleep at least three times a week. Moreover, despite widespread recognition of sleep’s impact on overall well-being, many Indians delay seeking help for sleep-related issues:
- While 1 out of every 2 respondents indicated they would seek assistance immediately upon experiencing sleep disturbances, a significant proportion either postponed action or continued to live with poor sleep.
- This trend is more pronounced among certain demographics, with women (58%) more likely than men (41.92%) to take proactive steps.
“Sleep is just as important for overall health and well-being as diet and exercise, yet many continue to struggle without seeking help,” said Dr. Carlos M. Nunez, Chief Medical Officer at ResMed. “This study highlights a significant gap between awareness and action, emphasising the urgent need to prioritise sleep health on a global scale.”
The impact of disturbed sleep on job performance:
Quality sleep directly impacts workplace performance, but many employees struggle due to sleep deprivation:
- 47% of Indian employed respondents have taken sick leave at least once in their careers due to fatigue from a poor night’s sleep.
- 37% of respondents report working night shifts starting after 9 PM, which can potentially further impact natural sleep cycles.
- 80% of Indian employed respondents believe their employers prioritise sleep health, the highest among surveyed countries. This contrasts sharply with the global trend, where 47% feel their employers do not care about their sleep health.
Sleep Disparities Between Genders
Women experience poorer sleep quality than men.
- Women experience fewer nights of good sleep per week compared to men (3.83 vs. 4.13).
- They also struggle more with falling asleep (38% vs. 29%), with hormonal changes being a key factor.
- Menopause significantly impacts sleep, with 44% of menopausal women worldwide struggling to fall asleep at least three times a week, compared to 33% of non-menopausal women.
- In India, women (17%) are more likely than men (12%) to take sick leave due to poor sleep.
Love, Sleep, and Disruptions
Sleep quality can be significantly affected by a partner’s habits, with many individuals experiencing nightly disruptions. The survey reveals the following:
- Partner-related sleep disturbances are a significant issue in India, affecting 41% of individuals in relationships, the highest among surveyed countries and well above the global average of 16%.
- Snoring is the leading cause of these disruptions (34%), with Baby Boomers being the most affected (47%).
- To cope, 42% of Indian respondents have permanently chosen to sleep in a separate room
“Sleep is as vital to health as diet and exercise, yet millions struggle in silence,” said Carlos M. Nunez, M.D., ResMed’s Chief Medical Officer. “This research highlights an urgent gap in awareness and action—one that needs immediate attention, to improve global health outcomes.”