According to a survey commissioned by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, more than half of Americans (56%) say they have experienced “COVID-somnia,” an increase in sleep disturbances, since the beginning of the pandemic.
Of the reported sleep disturbances, most common was trouble falling or staying asleep (57%). Additional disturbances included sleeping less (46%), experiencing worse quality sleep (45%) and having more disturbing dreams (36%).
“COVID-somnia can be brought on by multiple stressors: fears about the pandemic, concern for loved ones, financial worries, and limited socialization,” said Jennifer Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist who is president-elect of the AASM board of directors. “The best way to get healthy sleep during these unprecedented times is to be intentional about your sleep habits and routines.”
Men (59%) were more likely than women (54%) to report COVID-somnia sleep disturbances. Those 35 to 44 had the highest rate of COVID-somnia at 70%. Those 55 and older were most likely to report trouble falling or staying asleep.
