A recent study from the University of Florida has uncovered a surprising connection between sedentary work habits and sleep disturbances, such as insomnia. The research suggests that the more time employees spend sitting during their workday, the more likely they are to experience difficulty sleeping at night.
The Study
Sleep is crucial to overall health and productivity, but many workers are not getting enough rest. Researchers surveyed 1,297 employees over a period of ten years to investigate the impact of work habits on sleep. They focused on sleep duration, ease of falling asleep, daytime tiredness, insomnia symptoms, napping patterns, and the effects of nontraditional work schedules.
The findings indicated a strong correlation between sedentary work environments and poor sleep quality. The study also examined how changes in work patterns, such as increased reliance on technology and irregular working hours, might contribute to rising sleep problems.
The Results
The study identified three types of sleepers: good sleepers, catch-up sleepers, and those exhibiting insomnia-like symptoms. Workers who spent prolonged periods sitting during their workday were 37% more likely to suffer from insomnia. These workers reported frequent interruptions in their sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and increased daytime fatigue.
Additionally, employees with nontraditional work schedules, such as night shifts or extended hours, were 66% more likely to fall into the “catch-up sleeper” category. This group is characterized by frequent naps and the tendency to oversleep on weekends to compensate for inadequate rest during the week.
Perhaps most concerning, the study found that sleep disturbances linked to job habits could persist for years. About 90% of workers in the insomnia-like group continued to experience sleep problems even a decade later.
What This Means For Us
The findings highlight the importance of incorporating movement into the workday and reducing work-related stress after hours to improve sleep quality. Psychologist Claire Smith, who led the study, stressed the need for both employers and employees to take action. “Poor sleep has significant consequences on productivity, health, and overall well-being,” Smith noted. “The way we design work is threatening long-term sleep health.”
Smith also emphasized that sleep health is not just about quantity—it’s about falling asleep easily, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and sleeping soundly throughout the night.
The Bottom Line
To improve sleep quality, experts recommend getting up and moving during the workday and avoiding after-hours work when possible. If work demands don’t allow for breaks or flexible hours, prioritizing sleep hygiene is essential. This includes limiting screen time before bed, avoiding caffeine, and engaging in mindful relaxation activities to help prepare the body for rest.
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