While sleeping apart may seem unconventional, for many, it has become a necessary step to enhance sleep quality and overall relationship health. A variety of factors contribute to sleep disturbances, with partners citing issues such as snoring, loud breathing, or gasping for air (32%), restlessness (12%), mismatched sleep schedules (10%), and screen use in bed (8%) as primary disruptions. Notably, older generations are more likely to opt for separate sleeping arrangements due to these disturbances.
Those who have chosen to sleep separately report significant benefits, including improved sleep quality and stable or even enhanced relationships, with some even noting a better sex life. However, despite these advantages, experts highlight the benefits of co-sleeping. Sharing a bed triggers the release of oxytocin—often referred to as the "love hormone"—which can reduce depression, anxiety, and stress while increasing life and relationship satisfaction. Research published in Sleep found that couples who share a bed experience these emotional benefits, and another study in Frontiers in Psychiatry suggests that co-sleeping can lead to an approximate 10% increase in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep.
When asked about their emotional experiences of sleeping next to a partner, respondents listed love (53%), comfort (47%), relaxation (41%), happiness (27%), and calmness (21%) as their top feelings. These findings suggest that while separate sleeping arrangements may improve sleep quality, they can also come at the expense of certain emotional and psychological benefits linked to co-sleeping.
The Struggle for Quality Sleep
In today’s fast-paced world, balancing work, family responsibilities, and social obligations often makes sleep a casualty. Stress, anxiety, financial pressures, mental health conditions, and relationship conflicts are key contributors to poor sleep quality.
Stress, in particular, was reported as a significant factor by 69% of Indians, followed closely by South Korea (67%), Thailand (65%), Singapore (65%), and Germany (61%). Among Gen Z respondents, 53% cited anxiety as a primary cause of sleep deprivation. Despite recognizing the adverse effects of poor sleep, many remain passive in addressing their sleep issues, with 22% unwilling to seek help. This complacency can lead to worsened mood, decreased concentration, strained relationships, and diminished workplace performance. Conversely, getting adequate sleep has been shown to improve cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
The Health and Workplace Impact of Poor Sleep
Sleep deprivation is linked to severe health risks, including cognitive decline, mood disorders, dangerous driving behaviors, and chronic illnesses. According to Dr. Carlos Nunez, Chief Medical Officer at ResMed, chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, and stroke, particularly in individuals with untreated sleep apnea. The US Institute of Medicine Committee on Sleep Medicine and Research warns that sleeping fewer than six hours per night can impair cognitive performance to levels comparable to total sleep deprivation.
Despite the crucial role sleep plays in job performance, nearly half of employed individuals believe their employers do not prioritize sleep health. Alarmingly, 70% of workers admitted to calling in sick at least once due to a poor night’s sleep, which negatively impacts workplace productivity, morale, and deadlines.
In India, 80% of employees feel their employers value sleep health—the highest percentage among surveyed nations—yet 47% have taken sick leave due to sleep deprivation. Additionally, nearly half (49%) of Indian respondents struggle to fall asleep at least three times a week, and 37% work night shifts starting after 9 PM, which disrupts natural sleep cycles and increases the risk of chronic sleep deprivation.
Gender Disparities in Sleep Health
Women in India experience poorer sleep quality than men, averaging 3.83 nights of good sleep per week compared to 4.13 for men. Hormonal fluctuations contribute significantly, with 38% of women struggling to fall asleep versus 29% of men. Sleep deprivation also has a greater impact on women's professional lives, with 17% of Indian women taking sick leave due to poor sleep, compared to 12% of men.
Menopause exacerbates sleep challenges, with 44% of menopausal women globally experiencing difficulty falling asleep at least three times a week, compared to 33% of non-menopausal women. These disparities highlight the need for gender-specific interventions and policies to address sleep health challenges.
The Growing Trend of Sleep Divorce
The rising trend of "sleep divorce"—where couples choose to sleep separately—underscores the growing awareness of sleep health. While sleeping apart can be a practical solution for many, addressing the root causes of sleep disturbances, such as stress, lifestyle habits, and underlying medical conditions, remains crucial. Raising awareness about the benefits of quality sleep and encouraging open discussions about sleep health in both personal and professional settings can help individuals and couples achieve better rest and improved well-being.
