New research reveals that 78 per cent of Irish adults experience at least one sleep problem, with 32 per cent reporting difficulty falling asleep and returning to sleep when they wake at night.
The research found that multiple awakenings are common, with stress and pre-bed screen time key drivers, especially among younger adults.
Motty Varghese, sleep physiologist and behavioural sleep therapist at the Sleep Therapy Clinic in Dublin, said, "These findings show that psychological factors like stress, suboptimal sleep environment and behavioural factors like usage of handheld electronic devices are the prominent sleep disruptors.
"Light exposure and constant cognitive stimulation keep the brain in an alert state just when it should be powering down. If sleep difficulties persist, and depending on their nature, one should consider consulting a GP, a sleep physician, a cognitive behavioural sleep therapist, or speaking to a pharmacist for short-term remedies for situational sleep difficulties precipitated by a temporary stress event."
Poor sleep is taking a toll on the population, with around three in ten adults reporting that sleep issues often affect their concentration, productivity, and mood. In line with international research, women are more likely than men to report difficulty falling asleep, returning to sleep and experiencing multiple awakenings consistent with insomnia.
Over 40 per cent of adults say their nights are disrupted by what’s on their minds, while 43 per cent use a smartphone or tablet to relax before bed, and one in three admits to scrolling when sleep won’t come.
To improve your sleep, stick to a consistent schedule and regular bed and wake times, including weekends. Avoid using phones or tablets for an hour before going to bed, and establish a wind-down routine, such as journaling or practising breathing exercises, which can help your brain unwind from daily stress.
