Sleep is a crucial aspect of our health, yet it often gets overlooked in national health policies. In Australia, up to 40% of the population does not get enough sleep, with 10% suffering from chronic insomnia and 15% potentially affected by obstructive sleep apnea. These statistics paint a concerning picture of the nation’s sleep health.
A recent report published in the journal SLEEP by Flinders University sheds light on the issue and calls for urgent action to address the escalating crisis. Led by the Network of Early Career Sleep Researchers in Training (NEST), the report titled “Waking Up to Australia’s Sleep Health” provides a roadmap for bringing sleep to the forefront of the country’s health agenda.
The report highlights the economic and systemic costs of poor sleep, estimating that sleep-related health issues cost the Australian economy $75.5 billion in 2019–20. Beyond the financial impact, poor sleep is also linked to a higher risk of chronic illnesses, mental health disorders, workplace accidents, and reduced quality of life. Vulnerable populations, such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, shift workers, and those in rural or remote areas, are disproportionately affected.
To address the crisis, the report outlines four priority actions:
1. Declare sleep a national health priority: Introduce a 10-year National Sleep Health Strategy that recognizes sleep as a critical pillar of chronic disease prevention and health equity.
2. Launch a national sleep awareness campaign: Develop a wide-reaching initiative to promote sleep hygiene, reduce stigma around sleep disorders, and provide culturally tailored education for high-risk groups.
3. Improve training for health professionals: Enhance accredited sleep health training across all healthcare disciplines to improve diagnosis and care.
4. Increase investment in sleep research: Close critical knowledge gaps in understanding sleep disorders, particularly in underserved populations, children, and young adults, through sustainable research funding.
The report calls on the Federal Government to implement these recommendations and address the pressing issue of sleep health in Australia. By recognizing the importance of sleep and taking proactive steps to improve sleep quality across the population, the nation can work towards a healthier and more productive future.
For more information, you can access the original report in the journal SLEEP titled “Waking up to Australia’s Sleep Health” by Meagan E Crowther et al. from Flinders University’s Sleep Health group. Let’s prioritize sleep as a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being and take the necessary steps to ensure a good night’s rest for all Australians.
