Las Vegas, Nev. (January 7, 2025): National Sleep Foundation (NSF), the global voice of sleep health, presented its current viewpoints and new population sleep health data to media and attendees at CES®2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The update recognized 2025 as NSF’s 35th year as the leading voice in sleep health for the public, and ten years since hosting the first ever SleepTech Summit at CES in 2015.
NSF highlighted the growing contributions of SleepTech® to diversify and democratize innovation that can improve sleep. These advances can help everyday consumers get enough of the quality sleep they need, plus realize NSF’s goal to make sleep science-based products and services more accessible and convenient. NSF noted a steady increase in the development of new technologies and form factors targeting sleep, spanning wearable and proximal devices, environmental solutions, and clinical sleep solutions that improve the patient experience. NSF featured its ongoing collaboration with the Consumer Technology Association® (CTA) on standards for consumer sleep technology, to benefit designers, developers, manufacturers, and end users. They have produced five already, with AI standards pending.
“This coming year we expect to see another spike in announcements about new SleepTech® products coming to market that advance the field and can support more people’s decisions to prioritize sleep for their lifestyle, wellness, and health,” said John Lopos, NSF CEO. “It comes from a range of start-ups, growing platforms, and iconic names among consumer brands. The sleep economy as NSF defines it will be on a path to grow beyond what others have previously predicted.” NSF also anticipates more unique insights about population sleep health through new collaborations. At CES, Lopos gave examples of NSF’s recently announced engagements with Panasonic Well for family sleep health and with 2025 Sleep Awareness Week® Platinum Sponsor, Inspire Medical Systems, Inc., for obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, NSF is a member and resource in AARP’s AgeTech CollaborativeTM. He noted how shared interests help educate the public overall and inform an array of companies committed to sleep health.
NSF also expects significantly increased focus on sleep health by major employers and co-workers who have returned to the workplace or continue to work at home or in hybrid models. In a media session at CES, NSF released new data showing insufficient sleep has a negative impact on the work productivity of 60% of Americans. The reported effects of poor sleep on people’s performance also touch everyday life, with more than 2/3 (69%) of Americans reporting difficult thinking clearly, and six in ten having problems handling their workload and avoiding mistakes (60% for each, respectively) if they’ve had poor sleep. “Whether an organization employs 20 people or 200,000, focusing on sleep health and safety in their own community of colleagues can benefit performance and productivity at work and in daily living,” added Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, NSF’s SVP of Research and Scientific Affairs.
About the National Sleep Foundation
There’s only one National Sleep Foundation (NSF). NSF is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
Washington, D.C. (January 3, 2025): National Sleep Foundation (NSF) the global voice of sleep health, celebrates its 35th anniversary year while at CES® in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 7-10, 2025. As approaches to sleep health continue to advance, NSF champions the promise of SleepTech® for improving the public’s sleep health and wellness. 2025 also marks 10 years since NSF’s first SleepTech Summit at CES.
NSF is committed to making science-based SleepTech more accessible and convenient so anyone and everyone can be their Best Slept Self®. “In addition to being a longstanding leader in sleep health, for the past 10 years, NSF has prominently featured the promise of SleepTech and its potential to help democratize sleep health and make it more accessible for the public,” said John Lopos, NSF CEO.
NSF will host a Media Power Session on January 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM PT at Mandalay Bay and will make announcements on:
A forward-looking view of the sleep health ecosystem in 2025 and beyond
New collaborations in research and education
New program opportunities to benefit the public and sleep health advocacy
As part of NSF’s role in sleep technology, at CES, NSF will showcase winners and finalists from its 2024 SleepTech® Award which recognizes the year’s most innovative achievement in sleep technology. NSF will also feature members of its SleepTech® Network, a community of innovators across the sleep technology industry. NSF itself will be featured leading a panel on the AARP stage about SleepTech and brain health, as part of its role in the AgeTech Collaborative.
For 35 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep for health and well-being. NSF has promoted positive sleep health through published expert recommendations, consensus guidelines, technology standards, and easy-to-use tips and tools to improve sleep. For more information about NSF, visit www.theNSF.org. For more information on NSF’s Media Power Session at CES, visit https://www.ces.tech/media-guides/media-days/.
About the National Sleep Foundation
There’s only one National Sleep Foundation (NSF). NSF is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org│SleepHealthJournal.org
Washington, D.C. (November 22, 2024): National Sleep Foundation (NSF) today announced the selection of Susan Redline, MD, MPH, as the next Editor-in-Chief for its award-winning journal Sleep Health. Dr. Redline is Peter C. Farrell Professor of Sleep Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Redline will succeed Orfeu M. Buxton, PhD, Elizabeth Fenton Susman Professor of Biobehavioral Health and Director of the Sleep, Health & Society Collaboratory at Pennsylvania State University.
Dr. Redline’s contributions to the field of population sleep health are numerous and closely align to NSF’s public focus and mission. Dr. Redline’s research focuses on the role of genetics, early life developmental factors, and environmental exposures on sleep health. Additionally, Redline studies how social and environmental factors shape sleep health disparities, which, in turn, drive chronic health disparities; and the role of sleep interventions in improving health, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and cognitive disorders.
“I am honored to be named the next Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Health,” said Redline. “I look forward to continuing the Journal’s track record of publishing and promoting multi-disciplinary research to improve the public’s sleep health.”
“NSF is deeply grateful to Dr. Buxton for his commitment and thanks him for his dedication to the Journal and its editorial community these past five years. Under his stewardship, the Journal has published landmark articles that have grown the body of evidence to advance sleep health,” said John Lopos, NSF CEO. “NSF welcomes Dr. Redline to the helm of Sleep Health. As a distinguished leader in the sleep health research community with a passion for understanding and eradicating sleep health disparities, Dr. Redline will be an excellent Editor-in-Chief for our Journal,” added Lopos.
Current and second Editor-in-Chief, Orfeu Buxton added, “Sleep Health has enjoyed steady growth in submissions and quality for a decade. I have every confidence in Dr. Redline’s leadership, judgement, and expertise as Sleep Health continues to grow in impact.”
A recipient of the Best New Journal/SMT Award from the Association of American Publishers, Sleep Health has a 2023 5-Year Impact Factor of 4.4 and is ranked in the 76th percentile of behavioral neuroscience journals. Sleep Health is published by Elsevier, the leader in medical and scientific scholarly publishing. For more information about Sleep Health, visit sleephealthjournal.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Washington, D.C. (November 22, 2024) – Representatives Madeleine Dean and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania have introduced House Resolution 1565 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Developed by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) and with additional data and statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, and the National Safety Council, the resolution supports the designation of “Drowsy Driving Prevention Week” to raise awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving and encourages people across the United States to take preventable steps against drowsy driving.
NSF is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice. NSF established Drowsy Driving Prevention Week®, held each fall at the end of Daylight Saving Time, to raise awareness about the importance of sleep and the risks of driving while drowsy.
Drowsy driving is impaired driving. Like drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, drowsy driving is a significant threat to road safety. Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and other studies show drowsy driving is responsible for one out of every five deadly motor vehicle crashes and one out of every 10 motor vehicle crashes causing hospitalization. Other estimates total more than 300,000 police-reported crashes, 100,000 injuries, and 6,400 deaths in the U.S. annually.
“NSF applauds Congress for recognizing Drowsy Driving Prevention Week. Drowsy driving is impaired driving and a public health concern that everyone can take steps to prevent.” said John Lopos, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation. “It starts by getting enough quality sleep to be your Best Slept Self®, which is important for our safe driving and responsibility to each other on the road.”
“Drowsy Driving Prevention Week raises awareness and educates the public on preventable measures to avoid drowsy driving that will save lives. Too many lives have been lost to drowsy driving. We must make our roads safer for everyone,” said Rep. Dean.
For the past 30 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep health in relation to overall health and well-being. NSF has published consensus papers and guidelines for positive sleep health.
For more information about National Sleep Foundation’s leadership in sleep health and Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, visit www.theNSF.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Drowsy driving is a serious issue affecting both teens and adults across the U.S. According to NSF’s 2023 national survey, one in six teen drivers—around 1.7 million people—admitted to driving while too tired to keep their eyes open within their first two years behind the wheel. Throughout an entire lifespan, about 60% of adults report drowsy driving.
While any driver can be at risk of drowsy driving, some groups of drivers are at greater risk for drowsy-driving crashes.
Research Highlights Six Key Groups
Young drivers — especially males under 25 years old.
Older drivers who have difficulty sleeping, have sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea or take medications causing drowsiness.
Shift workers and people with long work hours — working the night shift can increase your risk of drowsy driving by nearly six times. Rotating-shift workers and people working more than 60 hours a week need to be particularly careful.
Commercial drivers — especially long-haul drivers. At least 15% of all heavy truck crashes involve fatigue and sleep-deprived driving.
People with undiagnosed or untreated disorders — People with untreated obstructive sleep apnea have up to seven times the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
Business travelers — who spend long hours driving or may be jet-lagged from a previous trip.
All drivers and passengers should be on the lookout for drowsy driving. Before you get behind the wheel, take a moment to check your alertness and if you’re ready to drive. If you are not getting enough quality sleep to be your Best Slept Self® you may not be fit to operate a motor vehicle.
SleepFirst™: National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Safety Campaign
Did you know that sleepiness and driving are a dangerous combination?
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Like alcohol, sleepiness can slow down your reaction time, decrease awareness of your surroundings, impair judgment, and increase your risk of crashing which could harm yourself and others.
Simply put, being alert and awake behind the wheel is just as important as not being under the influence. Don’t operate a motor vehicle when you are sleep-deprived.
Adequate Sleep and Planning
Being drowsy or falling asleep at the wheel is preventable! Here are some things you can do before hitting the road for short trips, such as going to the grocery store, commuting to work, a visit to your family, or a longer journey like traveling to a neighboring state:
Get the recommended amount of sleep the night before your trip. While the feeling of a good night’s sleep varies from individual to individual, the National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for most adults and 8-10 hours for most teens.
Get the sleep you need by being your Best Slept Self®.
During the day, get bright light exposure, exercise, and eat meals at consistent times.
In the evening, avoid heavy meals, nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol before bed. Try using a consistent wind-down routine and create a sleep-friendly environment.
Plan long trips with a companion. Why not share the travel experience with a companion passenger who can not only help look for early warning signs of driver fatigue but also help with driving when needed?A good driving companion is someone who stays awake to talk to you and will be aware of your alertness.
Schedule regular stops for your trip, every 100 miles or two hours. Plan your trips ahead of time by plotting out the rest stops or points of interest along your route. Stopping every two hours gets you out from behind the wheel to rest a little or stretch to improve blood circulation.
Avoid alcohol and be aware of any medications (over-the-counter and prescribed) that may cause drowsiness and impair performance. Alcohol interacts with fatigue, increasing its effects — just like drinking on an empty stomach.
Consult your physician or a local sleep disorders center if you have symptoms. If you are experiencing frequent daytime sleepiness or often have difficulty staying awake while driving, such as at a stoplight or a long commute, talk to a doctor for possible diagnosis and treatment of a sleep disorder.
National Sleep Foundation Study Results Show America’s Sleep-Deprived Drivers Can Plan Better for Safety
New data indicate alarming trends in how Americans view drowsy driving, which could put many at risk
Washington, D.C. (October 31, 2024) – Ahead of Drowsy Driving Prevention Week (Nov. 3 – 9), the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) today released the results of a new survey of American adults highlighting their behaviors to reduce drowsy driving. Only four in 10 adults are likely to find alternatives to driving when they haven’t gotten enough sleep, while nearly seven in 10 adults are likely to find alternatives to driving after having a few drinks.
Drowsy driving is impaired driving. Like drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, drowsy driving is a significant threat to road safety. Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and other studies show drowsy driving is responsible for one out of every five deadly motor vehicle crashes and one out of every 10 motor vehicle crashes causing hospitalization. Other estimates total more than 300,000 police-reported crashes, 100,000 injuries, and 6,400 deaths in the U.S. annually.
Drowsy driving is a public health and safety issue. NSF data have shown that as many as six in 10 adult drivers admit to having driven a car when they were so tired they had difficulty keeping their eyes open. Similarly, in their first two years of driving, one in six teens have already driven while drowsy.
National Sleep Foundation’s 2024 Drowsy Driving Survey was fielded as part of Drowsy Driving Prevention Week®, NSF’s annual campaign to help Americans get the sleep they need and reduce the number of drivers who get behind the wheel while sleep-deprived. NSF urges everyone to Sleep First. Drive Alert.®
Additional key results from the survey showed:
Only half of adults are likely to delay or change plans to avoid driving without enough sleep, while over eight in 10 adults are likely to delay or change plans after a few drinks.
Just 50% of adults are likely to avoid driving when they haven’t gotten the sleep they need, while almost 90% of adults are likely to avoid driving when they’ve had a few drinks.
More people have urged someone not to drive because of drinking than for being too sleepy or tired.
“NSF data consistently show that Americans do not think drowsy driving is as dangerous as other forms of impaired driving, like drunk driving,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, Senior Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, NSF. “We want the public to know that sleeping only three to four hours before driving is like having a few drinks and encourage everyone to have a backup plan in place for when they are not alert enough to drive safely, like choosing rideshare or taxi options or calling friends and family to help you and others stay safe,” added Dzierzewski.
There are more steps people can take to help prevent drowsy driving, including:
Get the recommended amount of sleep before you drive.
While the feeling of a good night’s sleep varies between individuals, NSF recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults and eight to 10 hours for teens of driving age.
Plan your long trips with a companion.
A companion passenger can not only help look for early warning signs of drowsiness but can also help with driving when needed. A good driving companion is someone who stays awake to talk to you and will be aware of your alertness.
Schedule regular stops for your trip, every 100 miles or two hours.
Be mindful of warning signs of drowsy driving.
Frequent blinking and yawning or having difficulty with lane and speed control are common signs that you may be driving while drowsy.
“At NSF, we’re dedicated to helping everyone prioritize their sleep for health and safety,” said John Lopos, CEO, NSF. “Getting the sleep you need to be your Best Slept Self® can help keep you and others safe on the road when you drive. Being awake and alert in the driver’s seat is as important as not being under the influence, so don’t hesitate to change your plans when you shouldn’t drive.”
NSF independently produces Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® and all related official educational content. Drowsy Driving Prevention Week 2024 sponsors include Waymo, Schneider National, General Motors, Samsung Health, and Higi. Visit the NSF website to see a full list of collaborators for the 2024 Drowsy Driving Prevention Week campaign, including MADD, the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, National Alliance to Stop Impaired Driving, Governors Highway Safety, and Comfort Keepers.
Join NSF to help prevent drowsy driving by sharing the campaign’s message on social media using the hashtag #SleepFirst. NSF’s drowsy driving prevention resources are available on www.theNSF.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Breaking Report: The Impact of Current National Politics on Population Sleep Health
National Sleep Foundation’s Analysis of Americans’ Sleep during the 2024 Presidential Election
Washington, D.C. (October 29, 2024) – The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) today released a breaking report analyzing the impact of the presidential election on the nation’s sleep health. 17% of all adults—estimated to represent a striking 45 million Americans—said the election negatively impacted their sleep.
Adults who reported a negative impact on their sleep due to the election had shorter weekend (or non-workday) sleep durations and poorer self-reported sleep quality than adults who did not report a negative impact of the presidential election. The negative impact of the 2024 presidential election on sleep was sweeping and observed across all groups and was not different across political party affiliation.
“The dynamics of stressful societal events like elections and election day, can adversely affect the public’s mood, and in turn sleep health, which is critical for health and well-being,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, Senior Vice President, Research and Scientific Affairs, NSF. “This reinforces the importance of addressing sleep health during periods of high stress.”
Recognizing and practicing healthy sleep behaviors, such as those in National Sleep Foundation’s Best Slept Self® framework, may help buffer against effects of sleep disruptions. Additionally, with nearly one in five U.S. adults during the 2024 presidential election reporting its negative impact on their sleep, presidential candidates, campaign managers, and mass media journalists should consider unintended public health consequences when designing and executing campaign tactics or providing campaign coverage and analysis which could have negative effects on sleep health, broader health, well-being, and safety.
For more sleep health information, visit www.theNSF.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Washington, D.C. (October 22, 2024): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) named Loop Earplugs, UBlockout, and Neurovalens as winners of the 2024 SleepTech® Award. NSF’s SleepTechAward recognizes the year’s most innovative efforts in advancing sleep technology and is a feature of NSF’s ongoing work to encourage and celebrate efforts when sleep science and insight are rapidly incorporated into accessible health products and services.
The SleepTech Award is given in two categories: Sleep Health and Wellness, which includes products and services consumers can use as part of their daily routine for sleep and health; and Sleep Disorders and Conditions, which includes solutions that seek to improve the patient experience for diagnosis and treatment.
Loop Earplugs’ Loop Dream™ and UBlockout’s Ultimate Blackout Shade both are the winners in the Sleep Health and Wellness category. As described by Loop Earplugs, the Loop Dream is designed to distribute pressure and improve comfort for side sleepers while helping reduce background noise with 27dB (SNR) of noise reduction. As described by UBlockout, the Ultimate Blackout Shade is a custom-made, blackout shade solution with smart technology designed for easy DIY installation.
Neurovalens, the winner in the Sleep Disorders and Conditions category, describes their product Modius Sleep as an FDA-cleared non-drug, non-invasive medical device to treat chronic insomnia through electrical vestibular nerve stimulation (VeNS).
“This year’s applicant pool and results were unprecedented for NSF’s SleepTech® Award. In the consumer space, the independent judges chose to recognize two solutions that represent how accessible tech innovations can both align with basic sleep health practices and come from forms other than electronics or software. In the clinical space, the judges were encouraged by alternative approaches that can help some people with sleep conditions like insomnia.” said John Lopos, National Sleep Foundation CEO.
“We’re honored and proud to receive the National Sleep Foundation’s SleepTech® Award for Loop Dream, our first earplug designed specifically for sleep. This recognition reinforces our mission to design innovative earwear that empowers people to live fully and choose how they hear the world. We can’t wait to continue pushing the boundaries of sleep health and well-being.” said Maarten Bodewes, Co-Founder Loop Earplugs.
“UBlockout is delighted to be recognized for its sleep innovation in our 100% blackout shade solution and the opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of light on sleep performance,” said Luke Boorman, UBlockout CEO.
“We’re honored to be the recipient of the 2024 National Sleep Foundation SleepTech® Award,” said Dr. Jason McKeown, CEO of Neurovalens. “This recognition supports our commitment to advancing the treatment of sleep disorders through safe, non-invasive, and proven neurostimulation technology. It’s a reflection of the dedication and passion of our entire team, who works tirelessly to improve the lives of those suffering from chronic insomnia.”
NSF would also like to acknowledge SleepTech Award finalists in each category: MyWaves Technologies, LTD, and rest by ümay in the Sleep Health and Wellness category and Optalert, Noctrix Health Solutions, Inc., and Withings Health Solutions in the Sleep Disorders and Conditions category.
For over 30 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep health to overall health and well-being. NSF has published consensus papers, guidelines, and standards for positive sleep health as well as easy-to-use tools and tips to improve sleep. NSF is committed to making science-based sleep tech more accessible and convenient so anyone and everyone can be their Best Slept Self®.
For more information about the National Sleep Foundation, visit www.theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Living with the symptoms of a sleep disorder can leave you feeling Beyond Tired®. Learn more from the NSF here.
When is extreme tiredness more than just exhaustion? Know the signs and symptoms of narcolepsy, plus diagnosis and treatment options.
Excessive fatigue and daytime sleepiness aren’t always just the result of a few nights of poor sleep. These symptoms could be a sign that you have narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder that can cause sudden, strong urges to sleep, even in unexpected situations.
Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of narcolepsy, along with how to get a diagnosis and what treatment options are available.
What is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. The boundary between sleep and wakefulness can become blurred in narcolepsy, causing someone to enter rapid eye movement (REM) sleep immediately, rather than progressing through earlier stages of the typical sleep cycle.
People with narcolepsy may wake up in the morning feeling well-rested, but they’re unable to sustain that alertness throughout the day. As a result, people with narcolepsy often feel excessively fatigued and frequently fall asleep during daytime hours, even when they’re engaged in conversation, work, or other activities.
Narcolepsy affects men and women equally. Symptoms usually start to appear in childhood or young adulthood; however, the onset of narcolepsy can occur at any life stage.
Narcolepsy can make it hard to cope with daily life and can often lead to emotional distress. People with narcolepsy may struggle to maintain academic, professional, and social activities.
Are There Risk Factors for Narcolepsy?
Most cases of narcolepsy are thought to be due to a lack of a brain chemical called orexin (or hypocretin), which promotes wakefulness and helps to regulate sleep. Researchers currently believe that people are born with a genetic predisposition to develop narcolepsy; eventually, often during childhood or teenage years, a triggering event may cause the onset of narcolepsy. After that, the body’s immune system becomes confused and mistakenly attacks the brain cells that produce orexin which then leads to symptoms of narcolepsy.
Possible triggering events include hormonal changes, major stress, a brain injury, or an infection.
The most common narcolepsy symptom is excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) which refers to an inability to stay alert during normal daytime hours. Individuals will feel drowsy while awake, despite how much sleep they get at night. The sleepiness can be a subtle, constant feeling of drowsiness or so powerful that someone with narcolepsy can fall asleep suddenly, even when they’re in the middle of a conversation or a task. These sudden bouts of sleep are referred to as “sleep attacks.” These attacks may last a few seconds or a few minutes. In between sleep attacks, some people with narcolepsy may show normal levels of alertness, particularly if engaged in an activity that holds their attention.
While everyone with narcolepsy has EDS, some may experience it differently. EDS may present as feeling irritable, having trouble concentrating, experiencing memory problems, or feeling extremely fatigued.
Cataplexy
Cataplexy is a brief but sudden loss of muscle tone that can cause a number of physical changes. Cataplexy can cause slurred speech, muscle weakness, or even collapse. In children, cataplexy often manifests as small facial tics, like raised eyebrows, mouth movements, lip biting or chewing, and more.
Cataplexy is usually triggered by strong emotions, like laughter, stress, or anger. Cataplexy occurs when the disrupted barrier sleep-wake lets the muscle paralysis that occurs during REM sleep intrude into wakefulness. This particular narcolepsy symptom may appear weeks or even years after EDS. People with narcolepsy don’t all experience cataplexy at the same rate or frequency (some may only have cataplexy a couple of times, while others may experience many episodes in one day).
Cataplexy may be misdiagnosed as a seizure disorder if it is the first symptom of narcolepsy to appear. The difference between cataplexy that occurs in narcolepsy as opposed to with seizure disorders is that people with narcolepsy remain conscious during cataplexy.
Although cataplexy can be disruptive, episodes only last a few minutes at most and resolve on their own.
Hallucinations and Sleep Paralysis
People with narcolepsy may experience sleep paralysis while falling asleep or waking up. Similar to cataplexy, during sleep paralysis individuals cannot move but remain conscious. During sleep paralysis or during sleep-wake transition periods without sleep paralysis, individuals with narcolepsy may have strong, dream-like hallucinations as they’re falling asleep (called “hypnagogic” hallucinations) or waking up (called “hypnopompic” hallucinations).
Interrupted Nighttime Sleep
Ironically, while people with narcolepsy feel fatigued during the day, about half of all people with narcolepsy report trouble sleeping at night. Someone with narcolepsy may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep.
How to Diagnose Narcolepsy
To diagnose narcolepsy, individuals will likely be asked to keep a sleep journal for one to two weeks. They’ll also undergo a physical exam to rule out other neurological conditions, and their healthcare provider will ask for a full medical history.
Two specialized sleep study tests are required for a narcolepsy diagnosis: a polysomnogram (PSG) and a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT). A PSG is an overnight recording of brain, muscle and breathing activity to help determine when REM sleep takes place. An MSLT assesses daytime sleepiness by measuring how quickly a person falls asleep during 4 to 5 nap opportunities and whether they enter REM sleep.
What are Treatments for Narcolepsy?
Medications and lifestyle changes are recommended to improve symptoms of narcolepsy.
Healthcare providers will often prescribe medicine to stimulate the central nervous system and help someone with narcolepsy stay awake during the day. Potential stimulants may include modafinil, armodafinil, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate, solriamfetol or pitolisant. In addition, both sodium oxybate and lower-sodium oxybate are now FDA-approved for treating both excessive sleepiness and cataplexy.
Healthcare providers may also prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications suppress REM sleep and help reduce symptoms of cataplexy, hypnagogic hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.
Lifestyle changes can also be effective in reducing symptoms of narcolepsy. Taking frequent naps (15-20 minute duration scheduled throughout the day), sticking to a regular bedtime routine with adequate time to sleep, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and other methods of practicing good sleep habits can all help lessen the symptoms of narcolepsy.
While narcolepsy can be a worrisome condition, recognizing symptoms early can help secure a diagnosis and treatment options so you can enjoy a significantly improved quality of life.
For Immediate Release Contact: Stephanie Kohn 540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
Washington, D.C. (September 30, 2024): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) announced Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® 2024 will be held November 3-9. NSF encourages everyone to prioritize sleep and drive when alert and refreshed. NSF’s annual campaign goal is to help the public understand the risks of this form of impaired driving and reduce the number of drivers who choose to drive while sleep deprived.
NSF data show 95 percent of Americans think drowsy driving is risky, but a majority of drivers do it anyway. 6 in 10 drivers (62%) have driven a car when they were so tired that they had a hard time keeping their eyes open, a projected 150+ million US motorists. Additionally, risk starts early for teen drivers. In their first two years of driving, 1 in 6 teens have already driven while drowsy.
American adults also say daily obligations keep them from getting enough sleep. Nearly 6 in 10 adults (58%) say job or school demands keep them from getting the sleep they need to drive alert. “Drowsy driving is impaired driving. It’s a risk to public health and safety that can impact anyone on our roads. NSF encourages all drivers to prioritize sleep and drive only when alert and refreshed,” said NSF CEO, John Lopos. “Drowsy driving is preventable. There are important steps we all can take that help ensure we’re alert behind the wheel to reduce the risk of a crash from drowsiness,” continued Lopos.
NSF independently produces Drowsy Driving Prevention Week and all related official educational content. NSF’s drowsy driving prevention resources are available on www.theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
You may have heard the term, but do you know what it means? Understanding the importance of REM helps explain why a solid night’s sleep is so important.
Most people climb into bed at night without ever thinking about the different stages of sleep that their brain and body cycle through or how these stages can affect their health. But understanding the role of REM sleep is important. This particular stage of sleep has a major impact on your memory, mental focus, and mood.
In this article you’ll learn about what REM is, why the REM portion of your sleep is so important, and how to make sure you’re achieving the right amount every night.
Know Your Sleep Stages
Ever wonder why you are tired despite getting a full night’s sleep? Maybe you didn’t spend enough time in the deep sleep stage of your sleep. Sleep is generally divided into two stages: REM (rapid eye movement) and NREM (non-rapid eye movement). NREM is further split into three parts: starting to fall asleep, light sleep, and deep sleep. During deep sleep, your breathing slows down, your blood pressure drops, and your energy is renewed.
During a typical night, your sleep alternates through cycles of REM and NREM sleep about every 90 minutes. The REM stage accounts for approximately 25 percent of sleep time, while the NREM stage takes up the other 75 percent. If you get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night, you might move through five to six full sleep cycles. Because sleep cycles begin and end with lighter sleep, you may feel more refreshed and rested if you wake up at the end of a cycle, instead of in the middle of a cycle when you might be in a deep sleep.
Understanding REM Sleep
While you’re in the REM stage of sleep, your eyes move rapidly (giving this stage its name), darting back and forth under your closed lids. It is during this state that most of your vivid dreaming takes place. At the same time, your muscles become temporarily paralyzed—important so that you don’t attempt to act out those dreams. REM sleep involves more brain activity than NREM and is considered a more “wakeful” state, as your heart rate and blood pressure increase to levels close to what you experience when you are awake.
Why Is REM Sleep Important?
REM sleep plays a significant role in helping your brain consolidate and process new information. REM sleep also helps to ensure better mental concentration and mood regulation, two things that are critical to both your daily work performance and overall quality of life.
The negative effects from lack of REM sleep are serious: Without this critical sleep stage, your overall health including brain function and cellular repair can suffer. Poor REM sleep may be due to sleep disorders such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea, which causes you to wake during the night.
Improving Your REM Sleep
By focusing on getting a solid night of sleep, you will likely improve your chances of getting a sufficient amount of the all-important REM stage, too. Seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended for most adults. In addition to ensuring adequate time to sleep, by setting regular bed and wake times you can help your body anticipate and optimize the sleep period.
How to make sure you get the sleep you need? Wind down gradually in the evening, without TV or computers to distract you with their active content and sleep-inhibiting blue light. Limit caffeine and alcohol before bed to improve your overall sleep. To prevent middle of the night interruptions that can disrupt your REM sleep, maintain a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment.
For Immediate Release Contact: Stephanie Kohn 540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
Sleep Health®: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation Seeks New Editor-in-Chief
Washington, D.C. (July 16, 2024): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is accepting applications for the Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Health®, the Journal of the National Sleep Foundation.
Sleep Health is a peer-reviewed journal published six times per year. The Journal was awarded the Best New Journal/STM by the Association of American Publishers. It is indexed in MEDLINE/PubMed, Emerging Source Citation Index, Scopus, Ovid, EMBASE, Emcare, and Europe PubMed Central. The Journal has an Editorial Board, Art Editor and ombudsman. Its aims, scope, and additional information are found at SleepHealthJournal.org.
The Editor’s term is 5 years, with the possibility of one additional term (10 years maximum). The Editor will assume the position on January 1, 2025. NSF will provide an annual stipend and support for an editorial assistant. Upon request, NSF will provide information related to publication schedule, page counts, manuscript management, and office administration.
“We are sincerely thankful to our outgoing Editor-in-Chief Orfeu M. Buxton, PhD for the exemplary leadership and culture he maintained at Sleep Health during his tenure. Under his watch, Professor Buxton has ensured our journal stands out as a platform for excellent emerging research, global multidisciplinary perspectives, and priority areas for the field, including sleep health equity, which is embedded in NSF’s mission to improve health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy,” said John Lopos, CEO of National Sleep Foundation.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Editor-in-Chief is responsible for the scientific integrity, review process, and editorial stewardship of the Journal. Key responsibilities include the following:
Set and implement a vision for the Journal as the global resource for sleep health.
Lead the editorial process to ensure a fair and unbiased review of original submissions.
Work collaboratively with the NSF Board of Directors, NSF staff, and publisher (Elsevier).
Recruit and maintain an Editorial Board and panel of expert reviewers.
Ensure that the Journal champions diversity of opinion, disciplines, and geographic representation.
Manage processes for manuscript submission, review, and author communication.
Meet publication timelines.
QUALIFICATIONS
The applicant will have previous editorial experience and broad knowledge of sleep health. The Editor must have a keen ability to discern significant developments and trends in sleep health. They must also articulate a clear vision for the Journal’s future. Applicants should have an advanced degree (e.g., MD, DO, or PhD) and have achieved significant peer recognition for their contributions to the fields of sleep research, sleep medicine, public health, science, social sciences, or related academic disciplines.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Letter of Intent due by 3 pm ET, Friday, September 13, 2024: Please submit a letter of intent to apply to NSF@SleepHealthJournal.org using email subject “Editor LOI [first and last name].”
Application due by 3 pm ET, Friday, October 4, 2024: Please submit the following application materials to NSF@SleepHealthJournal.org using email subject “Editor Application [first and last name].”
Curriculum Vitae. Provide a complete and updated curriculum vitae.
Personal Statement & Plan. Provide a statement of (a) your vision for the future of Sleep Health, and (b) your five-year action plan.
Experience. Describe your editorial and peer-review experience.
Professional Responsibilities. Describe your current professional responsibilities (e.g., 20% teaching, 40% clinical, 40% research).
Commitment Level. Describe the amount of discretionary time (e.g., professional time) you would be able to dedicate to the Journal.
Institutional Support Letter. Provide evidence of institutional support for your accepting a role as Editor (e.g., Dept Chair or Dean).
Recommendation Letters. Provide recommendation letters describing your professional and personal qualifications (3 letters maximum).
Conflict of Interest. Complete the NSF Conflict of Interest Form (to be provided upon NSF’s receipt of the Letter of Intent).
The Editorial Selection Task Force will interview shortlisted candidates between October 4 and October 18, 2024.
The National Sleep Foundation is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence or place of business.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. www.theNSF.org | www.SleepHealthJournal.org
Washington, DC (May 30, 2024): National Sleep Foundation (NSF) announced today that Michael V. Vitiello, PhD, has received its Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is the organization’s highest honor, recognizing an individual who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in the field of sleep health. The award celebrates the recipient’s connection to NSF’s non-profit, public health mission through their extensive professional contributions to the field and to the work of the organization.
“NSF is honored to present Dr. Vitiello with our Lifetime Achievement Award. His work as a researcher in sleep and circadian rhythms in older adults has been pivotal in the field,” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, Board Chair of the National Sleep Foundation.
Dr. Vitiello is Professor Emeritus, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, at the University of Washington, a Fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a Fellow (Health Sciences) of the Gerontological Society of America. He has previously served as Chair of the NIH’s Sleep Disorders Advisory Board (SDRAB), President of the Sleep Research Society (SRS), and Scientific Program Chair of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS). He has served on numerous committees and advisory boards, including serving on the Board of the National Sleep Foundation (2004-2009). He is also Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Medicine Reviews and has served as an editorial board member of numerous other scientific journals.
Dr. Vitiello was a member of numerous NSF Consensus Panels including NSF’s landmark 2015 Sleep Duration Guidelines, and 2016 Sleep Quality Recommendations as well as panels on Sleep Timing and Variability and NSF’s validated Sleep Satisfaction Tool. Dr. Vitiello currently chairs the National Sleep Foundation’s Population Health and Methodology Committee and recently was a panelist at the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep and Aging Conference. Dr. Vitiello has researched the science of sleep and aging for more than 40 years and is the author of 600+ scientific articles, reviews, chapters, editorials and abstracts, with his work being cited more than 35,000 times.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Technology is a great tool to help keep us informed, connected, and entertained. These days, it sometimes feels like we have an electronic device permanently attached to our bodies given how often we spend time scrolling, searching, watching, playing, and posting. Unfortunately, there can be unwanted effects of electronic use: screen time, especially at night, can disrupt sleep in kids and teens.
The use of screens by children and adolescents can disrupt sleep.
Sleep is an essential process our brain and body use to recharge and recover, this is especially true for children and teens, who are undergoing rapid growth and daily development. Children and teens need anywhere between 8 and 13 hours of sleep a night depending on their age. But, screen use, especially exciting and engaging content before bed, can negatively impact the quality and quantity of children’s sleep.
NSF convened an expert group of researchers to develop consensus guidelines for screen use and sleep. We found that screen use across the day can impair sleep health for both children and teens, but that viewing content before bed was particularly bad for sleep. The good news is, that there are things your family can do to help lessen some negative effects of screen use on sleep.
What can help reduce the effects of screen use on sleep health?
Here are some things you can do to reduce the problems screen use may cause for children’s sleep:
Talk with children about how using tech and screens can impact sleep
Set time limits around screen use, especially at night
Supervise content at night: avoid stimulating or upsetting material
Implement early, regular, and relaxing bedtime routines without screens
Model appropriate nighttime screen use yourself
Decisions around appropriate screen use involve the whole family.
When it comes to the use of technology and screens, every family is unique and knows what will fit best for their own dynamics. Deciding how and when screens are used in the home is an important part of helping everyone in the family prioritize their sleep health.
Appropriate screen use is just one part of healthy sleep. Be sure to check out NSF’s Best Slept Self® tips to learn how you can make small changes to daytime and nighttime activities and improve sleep health.
Making small changes to your family’s routine during the day and night, including how and when screens are used, can help everyone get the sleep they need to be their Best Slept Self®.
Manage Screen Use for Healthy Sleep in Children
Learn more about screen use and ways to improve your child’s sleep health.
National Sleep Foundation Highlights the Effects of Screen Use on Children’s Sleep
Behavioral strategies and interventions may reduce the negative effects of screen use on sleep health
Washington, D.C. (May 29, 2024): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) sounded a call for appropriate use of screens based on current evidence of their effect on sleep health in children and teens. The updated response follows a consensus report published in Sleep Health®, the Journal of the National Sleep Foundation, under the original titleThe Impact of Screen Use on Sleep Health Across the Lifespan: A National Sleep Foundation Consensus Statement.
The NSF advances the public’s knowledge, behaviors, and practices by issuing guidelines and recommendations for sleep health. NSF established a multidisciplinary expert panel of 16 internationally recognized researchers to develop a consensus recommendation for screen use and sleep health, reflecting an extensive analysis of 574 peer-reviewed manuscripts on the subject.
The expert panel found that, in general, screen use impairs sleep health for both children and adolescents. In particular, the content of screen use before bed can have a negative effect on sleep. Finally, the expert panel affirmed behavioral strategies and interventions can reduce the potentially negative effects of screen use on sleep health.
“NSF is dedicated to improving sleep health for the public. Understanding what can negatively affect sleep health in youth and how to promote sleep health can set children and teenagers up for positive sleep health that can carry into adulthood,” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, Chair of NSF’s Board of Directors.
“The expert panel examined available scientific evidence, paying close attention to studies that examined whether, how, and for whom screen use might negatively impact sleep health. We found that stimulating content of screen use, particularly at night, has a negative effect on sleep health in young people,” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD.
Talking with children about how using tech and screens can impact sleep
Setting time limits around screen use, especially at night
Supervising content at night: avoid stimulating or upsetting material
Implementing early, regular, and relaxing bedtime routines without screens
Modeling appropriate nighttime screen use yourself
NSF encourages parents and caregivers to make decisions about children’s screen use that work best for their family dynamic. Determining what constitutes appropriate screen use should be based on family-specific information. Generally, incorporating small changes into your family’s routine during the day and night can help everyone get the sleep they need to be their Best Slept Self®.
Not getting enough sleep, having poor sleep quality, or having inconsistent sleep schedules is associated with adverse health outcomes. For more information about sleep health, visit theNSF.org/sleep-health-topics.
Learn more about screen use and ways to improve children’s sleep health.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 independent nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
When it comes to sleep, quantity is important—and so is quality. You might be getting enough hours of sleep, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting the highest quality sleep.
Most adults need somewhere between seven and nine hours a night to wake up feeling like their Best Slept Self®, and a lot depends on exactly what happens during those hours. The quality of your sleep ensures that you get the essential physical, mental, and emotional benefits you need from your slumber. Sleep quality is an important component of sleep health along with sleep duration, sleep satisfaction, and sleep consistency (regularity).
Defining Sleep Quality
Most people can rate their sleep as good, bad, or something in between. In fact, you can directly observe many aspects of sleep quality. How you describe your sleep or the information that sleep tests and technology can capture, mostly fits into four different elements:
Sleep Latency: how long it takes you to fall asleep
Awakenings: the number of awakenings you have during the night
Wake After Sleep Onset: the amount of time you are awake after first falling asleep
Sleep Efficiency: the ratio of time asleep to time lying in bed
These four elements were decided by an NSF-led expert group after an extensive review of 277 research studies and previously published in Sleep Health as a consensus guideline. If a scientist, expert, spokesperson, company, agency, or other source is talking about sleep quality without including these kinds of features, they may not be following the most complete and up-to-date recommendations.
How Do You Measure Sleep Quality?
The most recognized way to measure the four elements of sleep quality is the polysomnogram (PSG), which is an in-lab sleep test used in both research and clinical work. Recent technology innovations in at-home sleep tests make it possible to measure nearly all of the same sleep features as the in-lab PSG. Other devices with various sensors can capture some of these same sleep data and can be grouped into the following categories:
Wearables: Technology we wear on our bodies like watches, rings, headbands or hybrid clothing items
Nearables: Devices connected to our beds or in our bedrooms that track our movement, breathing, or body temperature
Airables: Technology that uses wireless signals to monitor sleep through sound, radar, and environmental information
To help ensure sleep products gather the right information about a person’s sleep quality, NSF joined with the Consumer Technology Association® (CTA) to publish a new technology standard in 2024. This fifth standard for sleep devices from NSF and CTA is meant to help developers, product manufacturers, and the public know what’s expected of a product when it says it measures sleep quality.
So, How’s Your Sleep Quality?
Now that you know what sleep quality is, how it is measured, and the role technology can play, let’s ask: how is your sleep quality? All of the dimensions of sleep quality can be self-rated following a night of sleep (sleep latency, awakenings, wake after sleep onset, and sleep efficiency). NSF recommends checklists based on age that can be a good measuring stick. If you answer “yes” to most of the questions below, congrats! you likely have good sleep quality.
Adults (18-64 years old):
Did you fall asleep in 30 minutes or less?
Did you wake up 1 time or less during the night?
In total, were you awake for 20 minutes or less after falling asleep?
Were you mostly asleep while in bed (i.e., 7 out of 8 hours)?
Older Adults (65 years old or more):
Did you fall asleep in 30 minutes or less?
Did you wake up 2 times or less during the night?
In total, were you awake 30 minutes or less after falling asleep?
Were you mostly asleep while in bed (i.e., 7 out of 8 hours)?
Improving Sleep Quality
If you’re concerned that your sleep quality is subpar, don’t fear, there are several things you can do. First, you can work to make some changes to your daytime and nighttime behaviors. NSF’s Best Slept Self® framework includes 6 small steps you can take during the day and at night to help you get the quality sleep you need. For instance, exercising 5 days a week, avoiding technology close to bedtime, and eating your meals at consistent times can help. Learn all the steps you can take to be your Best Slept Self® here.
Second, you can consider adding some proven products or services to your daily lifestyle. Asking some straight-forward questions can help you choose which options may meet your own sleep quality needs:
Are recommendations based on evidence or expert opinion?
Is a product’s claim to measure or improve sleep quality supported by research or data?
Do the product or service claims align with NSF/CTA definitions for sleep quality?
Third, if you’re having specific symptoms or still not getting the sleep you need after using some of these solutions, it may be time to check with a healthcare professional. If you suspect a medical condition is at the root of your sleep problem, your healthcare provider can help find the source and work with you to choose appropriate treatment options that fit your needs.
Improving the quality of your sleep is an important part of waking up feeling energized and ready to tackle the day. NSF is here to help you be your Best Slept Self®.
Sleep Quality At-A-Glance
Learn more about sleep quality and ways to improve your sleep health.
For Immediate Release Contact: NSF Communications NSFmedia@theNSF.org
Washington, D.C. (March 13, 2024): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) hosted the first Congressional Briefing on sleep health and mental health as part of the organization’s 2024 Sleep Awareness Week® campaign (March 10-16).
The Congressional Briefing, entitled Sleep Health is Mental Health, complements NSF’s evergreen efforts to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of sleep for health and well-being. Members of Congress, staff, and interested stakeholders heard from a multidisciplinary expert panel about the connection between sleep health and mental health. The purpose was to share current evidence and discuss opportunities for actionable solutions, while Congress works towards comprehensive mental health legislation. In July 2023, NSF hosted the first Congressional Briefing on Sleep Health Equity.
The United States is in the midst of a mental health crisis. The US Surgeon General, along with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Institutes of Health, have indicated the “mental health crisis” is among the biggest health challenges currently facing the United States.
NSF’s Congressional Briefing took place alongside other Sleep Awareness Week activities and events including the release of NSF’s latest Sleep in America® Poll results. NSF’s 2024 survey demonstrated the link between teens’ sleep health and mental health, and also found that teens who practiced more healthy sleep behaviors reported lower levels of depressive symptoms. These results build on the NSF’s 2023 survey of U.S. adults, which showed this same strong, two-way connection between sleep health and mental health.
“One of National Sleep Foundation’s purposes is to help equip policymakers and institutions to effect positive change, and sleep health and mental health are public health priorities. People are in crisis, so it’s important we emphasize the clear connection between the two,” said John Lopos, CEO of NSF. “We’re thankful to have had the chance to host the first-ever Congressional Briefing on this topic and prime an essential conversation on the Hill.”
The Briefing began with introductory remarks from members of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus Representatives Buddy Carter (GA), Jamie Raskin (MD), and Paul Tonko (NY) and included provider insights presented by Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, Chair of NSF’s Board of Directors, NSF data presented by NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, and an address from Joshua Gordon, MD, PhD, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, among other speakers.
Also during Sleep Awareness Week® 2024, Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD), submitted an extension of remarks to the Congressional Record recognizing the campaign. “As we mark Sleep Awareness Week, recognized this year by the National Sleep Foundation between March 10-16, we must elevate the importance of sleep health to our mental and physical health and confront the sleep disparities that closely correspond to racial and socioeconomic inequalities,” Raskin said. Raskin’s remarks were an extension to House Resolution 232, recognizing the importance of sleep health and expressing support for the designation of Sleep Awareness Week. Every year, NSF independently produces Sleep Awareness Week®, the premier campaign for sleep health.
For more information about the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week® campaign, activities, and research about sleep health and mental health, visit Sleep Awareness Week® 2024.
About the National Sleep Foundation
There’s only one National Sleep Foundation (NSF). NSF is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. TheNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
One sign of getting enough of the quality sleep you need is how you feel during the day. Most people know what they look and feel like when they’re refreshed and ready for the day after a good night’s sleep. How we perform during the daytime is usually a sign of how we’ve slept the night before.
When we’re not satisfied with our sleep, it’s time to start taking small steps during the day and the night that can have a big impact on sleep. So, NSF promotes six basic healthy sleep behaviors that are backed by science and can help anyone and every be their Best Slept Self®.
Spend time in bright light during the day, natural light or equivalent brightness.
Exercise regularly for a deeper sleep. Aim for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
Eat your meals at consistent times day after day.
Avoid heavy meals, nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime.
Use a consistent routine with a relaxing wind-down to help get the sleep you need (7-9 hours for most adults, with same sleep and wake times).
Put your devices away an hour before bed and sleep in a quiet, cool, and dark environment.
But if you’ve consistently given these steps a chance for a couple of weeks and still don’t feel you’re getting enough of the quality sleep you need, or you notice you have symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, it might be time to seek advice from a healthcare professional. Excessive daytime sleepiness isn’t just about being tired from a poor night’s sleep – it’s a recurring feeling of significant drowsiness that can make it hard to stay alert and awake during the daytime. Sometimes it’s an effect of medicines you are taking, and sometimes it’s even a symptom of a diagnosable condition, including different sleep-wake disorders.
A clinician can help determine if your nighttime sleep disruption or daytime sleepiness are caused by an underlying medical problem. Physical conditions like pain, urinary system issues, and hormonal issues are common sleep disruptors. Depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions are well-documented to travel together with sleep problems. And all of these can have the next-day effects of making you feel tired and not your best. Two of the most common sleep disorders, insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA; see this link for more information) are clearly connected to feeling tired or sleepy during the day. But there also are more rare sleep disorders that have the hallmark characteristics of excessive daytime sleepiness.
Two of these more rare conditions are narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH). Diagnosing and treating these conditions usually needs expert attention from sleep medicine specialists.
Narcolepsy is a rare neurological disorder affecting the sleep-wake cycle. It’s characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and other symptoms such as cataplexy (a sudden loss of muscle control), disrupted nighttime sleep, hallucinations, and sleep paralysis. Recognizing and diagnosing narcolepsy early is important. Diagnosis involves physical examinations and specialized sleep studies. Although there is no cure, prescription medicines have been approved by the FDA to treat a range of symptoms. FDA approved medicines for narcolepsy include:
modafinil / armodafinil
dextroamphetamine / mixed amphetamine salts
methylphenidate
high-sodium oxybates
low-sodium oxybate
pitolisant
solriamfetol
Along with medicines, living with and managing narcolepsy often includes other approaches like practicing basic healthy sleep behaviors, cognitive-behavioral and psychological support therapies, and even accommodations in workplace or educational settings.
Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH) is a rare sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness despite sufficient nighttime sleep. It’s different from narcolepsy. When compared to the experience with narcolepsy, people with idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) tend to sleep longer at night and may find it challenging to wake up because of prolonged confusion upon awakening (known as sleep inertia). Even though they may sleep longer, people with IH typically report they don’t feel refreshed after sleep. What’s more, they may take long naps and still feel unrefreshed afterward. Diagnosing IH involves ruling out other conditions and calls for a sleep medicine specialist to perform a sleep study. Treatment focuses on symptom management with medications, and though several types of stimulants are often prescribed off-label for IH, only recently was low-sodium oxybate approved for this use by FDA. It is taken by mouth either once or twice a night. Here too, adopting healthy sleep behaviors that help with consistency and regular sleep patterns can be appropriate for people with IH. Addressing broader behavioral and environmental factors is crucial. More research may show how cognitive-behavioral therapy, sleep regulation, physical activity, scheduled napping, and dietary adjustments complement medication and offer their own benefits in treatment for IH.
This content was produced independently by the National Sleep Foundation and brought to you by Avadel Pharmaceuticals and Jazz Pharmaceuticals, sponsors of the 2024 Sleep Awareness Week® campaign.
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One of the first things we need to understand is the teenage years are one of the most critical periods of our development. Most teens experience rapid physical growth, their brains go through crucial transformation, they start firming up their social roles and identity, and they build skills for emotional regulation. That’s a lot being packed into a very demanding time of life. With health, teens often find themselves at a crossroads: their habits can take a negative trajectory, or they can form positive routines that can help them thrive now and over the course of their lives.
Adopting good sleep habits is critical during this time in a teen’s life and important for their growth, health, and well-being. So, where does sleep fit in the big picture for teens? For starters, getting enough quality sleep plays a big part in the behavioral and emotional health they’ll need during adolescence and beyond. But, teens have unique sleep needs that are distinct from both children and adults.
How much sleep do teens need?
Teens’ sleep differs from adults’ in that they generally require more hours of sleep to meet the demands of their growth and development. While most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep, teens typically need between 8-10 hours, sometimes up to 11. Here’s a wake-up call: less than 2 out of 10 teens report getting the NSF’s recommended 8-10 hours of sleep on both school days and weekends.
Teens’ unique sleep schedules
Like all of us, teens have a natural “body clock” or “circadian” clock that affects the timing of their sleep, plus a “drive” for sleep that makes them feel tired. In fact, our internal body clock changes during the teen years. Circadian rhythms start to shift later after childhood, causing teens to naturally stay up later at night before feeling tired, and then not feel alert until later in the morning. The take home message here is that it’s normal for teens’ brains and bodies to keep them up later at night and not be quite ready to go until later the next morning (hint: be prepared for this shift to stay in effect until a teen reaches their early 20s).
This natural pattern conflicts with unique social challenges and common practices like early school start times, which are tough on teens for biological reasons. So, in these situations, it’s difficult for teens to get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep because they’re not tired early enough at night to sleep and then have to wake up early in the morning while still biologically sleepy. NSF’s 2024 Sleep in America® Poll highlighted this mismatch, showing that teens are nearly half as likely to get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep on school nights compared to weekends. And teens themselves feel these effects. The same study showed teens are over three times as likely to be dissatisfied with the amount of sleep they get on school nights compared to weekends.
If teens’ sleep needs and timing patterns weren’t special enough, pile on the list of other influences like their use of technologies with screens, social behaviors, and busy activity schedules. There’s some evidence that exposure to bright light, particularly blue light, in the evening hours can even further delay when teens feel sleepy. Scientifically, light, especially within the hour before bedtime, can delay the brain’s release of the hormone melatonin which might make it harder to fall asleep. While the story of light’s effect on teen sleep is building, it’s even more important to manage the alerting activities teens are doing on screens before sleep. Social media engagement, exciting or disturbing content at bedtime—including negative social comments and comparisons—all can interfere with healthy sleep. Teens’ use of common technologies also can directly compete with their sleep, like when they purposefully put off sleep to stay active on electronic devices. Their scheduling challenges, such as extracurricular activities and multiple demands on their time, can make it difficult for teens to allow sufficient opportunities for sleep. They may even compensate for missed sleep with a late-day or evening nap, also making it harder for them to fall asleep at night.
Helping teens to set healthy sleep habits
The teenage years are a great opportunity to set healthy sleep habits. Parents and families can be most effective in helping their teens set healthy sleep habits by actively respecting their growing independence and autonomy, helping them prioritize the importance of sleep, and making a caring connection.
· Encourage teens to share their values, goals, and think about how healthy sleep can help them achieve those goals. Give teens the autonomy to decide what they want to focus on in their sleep health.
· Give teens information to understand and prioritize the benefits of sleep and making good decisions. For example, how do their role models and high-performance people use healthy sleep to be at their best?
· Consider the social context in which teens make decisions about sleep, understanding how their peers value sleep, and help them prioritize sleep in a way that actually raises their social status.
· Champion how healthy sleep is practiced and prioritized within the family.
Helping teens establish good sleep habits is doable and worth it. It can require some effort and time, but encouraging them to create positive, healthy sleep habits now can help them be their Best Slept Self® over their entire lives.
Getting enough quality sleep plays a pivotal role in the health and well-being of teens. It’s strongly tied to and impacts their mental health.
Healthy sleep is linked to improved emotional functioning in teens, which can help manage anxiety, depression, and reported stress among those who get sufficient sleep. For example, NSF’s 2024 Sleep in America® Poll found that teens who get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep each night have lower levels of depressive symptoms. It could be these positive effects are partly due to the role sleep plays in regulating emotions and maintaining a stable mood. On the other hand, regularly disrupted sleep is associated with more mood swings, irritability, and increased emotional reactivity. In fact, the same NSF study showed that nearly seven out of ten teens who are dissatisfied with their sleep also reported elevated depressive symptoms. Adequate sleep is key to building emotional resilience, and it can help teens more effectively work though some of the challenges they can experience during adolescence. When people sleep poorly, they are more likely to interpret the world around them in a negative light. With regular, sufficient, and healthy sleep, we have a more positive outlook. This benefit of sleep could help teens avoid an overload of negative emotions during the day.
Beyond its impact on emotional well-being, healthy sleep is crucial for cognitive functioning and academic performance in teenagers. Teens who consistently get enough sleep are better equipped to concentrate, retain information, and excel in school. However, insufficient sleep may lead to difficulties in problem-solving, decision-making, and overall cognitive abilities, which can negatively impact a teen’s academic success and long-term mental well-being.
Getting enough quality sleep also helps teens cope with the stress of their evolving physical, social, and emotional worlds. During deep sleep, the brain regulates stress hormones such as cortisol. Teens who consistently get enough sleep (NSF recommends 8-10 hours each night) can be better equipped to cope with stressors and have less risk of developing chronic stress-related mental health issues. What’s troubling is the vast majority of teens, 80% in a recent NSF poll, are not getting enough sleep.
During adolescence, teens are also navigating new behaviors that require decision-making skills and impulse control. Healthy sleep contributes to improved behavior in teens, leading to fewer accidents, reduced substance use, fewer reckless behaviors, and a lower risk of other health problems.
Promoting sleep health early with teens is worth it. It’s a positive step to help them feel better, be safer, perform better, cope more effectively, and choose healthier behaviors that can set them up for success over the long-term.
You’re a teenager? Great, this is for you! (We already wrote something for adults).
Take a few minutes to look inside yourself and see what’s important to you. What defines you? Who do you aspire to be? Did you know sleep powers your mind, body, emotions, and health? Sleep helps you to be ready and able to pursue and achieve many of your goals. Seriously, have you ever tried to do anything that’s really important to you when you’re tired, even exhausted? What are the great things you can do when you are your Best Slept Self®?
We know it’s hard to prioritize your sleep when there are a lot of distractions and interruptions out there from things you see, hear, buy, and use every day—whatever can get in the way of you getting enough of the quality sleep you need. But think about what’s possible, and how you can be you, when you’re feeling great after a night of healthy sleep.
High-performance people—thinkers, doers, creatives, athletes, celebrities, everyday leaders, and influencers—they understand sleep is a power within us that energizes what we do and can even give us a boost or a competitive edge.
Healthy sleep is for everyone, including you. You’re worth getting the sleep you need for your happiness and well-being!
So, as you decide what you can do about your sleep health, consider this: scientific studies show most teens need 8-10 hours of sleep per night. This can be challenging as your natural body clock (circadian rhythm) keeps you alert late into the night and feeling sleepy well into the morning hours. Oh, and if you’re like most teens, you still need to be ready to start school early and keep a demanding schedule! In fact, 7 out of 10 teens have to be present for school before 8:30am. Plus—and how many times have you heard this—being on screens late at night can further disrupt your body clock and can keep your mind and emotions going when you should be sleeping. We’re pretty sure you know what we’re talking about: the rabbit hole of scrolls and chats and games and surfs and posts (sorry, not all of them friendly, btw—stay strong!) and…all that alerting and engaging content can make it difficult to fall asleep. Not to mention demands from school, sports, extracurricular activities, your family, and more. Perhaps it feels like the only time you have ‘free’ from all the demands of your day is at night, so you might have the urge to use that time on things beside sleep.
Well, you can get past these challenges with some basic tips to help you be a Best Slept® Teen:
Daytime Tips for Teens:
1. Light: Get sunlight or bright light as soon as possible in the morning after waking up to boost your alertness during the day and help get deeper sleep at night. Trust us, it’s a science thing.
2. Exercise: Exercise regularly for a deeper sleep. This can include participating in sports or other physical extracurricular activities. Even if you’re not the physical type, it’s good to get your blood flowing for even 30 minutes a day.
3. Mealtimes: Eating meals at consistent times day after day can help your sleep. It may be tough given your active schedule. Whatever works for you for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, focus on being as consistent as you can. Actually, having a consistent schedule overall is great for sleep.
Nighttime Tips for Teens:
1. Avoid: Allow your mind and body to relax by avoiding caffeine in the late afternoon and evening. You may also want to avoid late-day or evening naps, because they can lessen your “drive” for sleep and make it harder to fall asleep when you want to at night. If you must, grab a short nap in the afternoon. It is also best to stay away from heavy meals and nicotine before bed.
2. Wind-down: Use a consistent routine that relaxes you to help get the sleep you need each night. You could try meditation, listening to soothing music, dimming the lights, or reading a book. Try to commit to a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. It’s doable with reminders and a regular routine. And it’s important to avoid excessive sleep-ins on weekends so you don’t have a difficult adjustment on Mondays when you’re back in action.
3. Environment: Create an optimal sleep environment by making your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. And, put those electronic devices away. Sure, that might sound impossible, and you’re not alone in not wanting to stay connected. But using screens in bed can be stimulating and can also can turn your sleeping space into a cue to be awake rather than to sleep. Yes, it really happens, and it’s an unhealthy habit that’s hard to break.
What are three actions specific to you, that you can take for better sleep health?
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Remember, you have the power to shape who you want to be, and healthy sleep is definitely part of that. Make choices that prioritize your health, allowing you to be your Best Slept Self. It’s worth it!
For Immediate Release Contact: NSF Communications NSFmedia@theNSF.org
National Sleep Foundation Says Teens’ Sleep Health and Mental Health Strongly Linked
NSF releases important new public health findings from its annual poll in advance of Sleep Awareness Week®
Washington, D.C. (March 7, 2024) – To kick off Sleep Awareness Week® 2024 (March 10-16), the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) released new findings from their annual Sleep in America® Poll. This year focused on exploring the important connection between sleep health and mental health in American teens. Results from this first-of-its-kind study in teens found that healthy sleep behaviors are closely linked to mental health in teens. Nearly 80% of teens who earn a grade of ‘B’ or higher for practicing healthy sleep behaviors are also free of significant depressive symptoms.
Additional key results from the representative, population-level research show:
8 out of every 10 teens don’t get enough sleep.
The typical teen gets an ‘F’ grade for practicing healthy sleep behaviors.
Teens who have trouble falling or staying asleep 2 or more nights a week have significantly more depressive symptoms.
Almost ¾ of teens say their emotional well-being is negatively impacted when they sleep less than usual.
Importantly, these results expand the base of knowledge about the connection between sleep health and mental health in the American public. In 2023, NSF’s Sleep in America Poll® highlighted this similar connection in the general US adult population. As the US continues to face a mental health crisis, teens are in a particularly unenviable position, facing unique challenges and with unique sleep needs.
“We’ve continued to emphasize for the public that sleep is critical for our health and well-being,” said John Lopos, National Sleep Foundation CEO, “and in the context of the mental health crisis it’s important to put more evidence behind the strong connection with sleep, especially in our kids. This is a call to action for teens, families, educators, communities, and policymakers. What’s encouraging is we see where healthy sleep fits.”
An annual survey, the Sleep in America Poll is one of the longest-running records capturing U.S. perceptions, attitudes, and trends in sleep health. The 2024 report combined results from a variety of sleep health tools, including NSF’s Sleep Health Index®, Sleep Satisfaction Tool®, and its Best Slept Self® Questionnaire, to assess how teens sleep and the PHQ-A to evaluate depressive symptoms in teens.
“We combined NSF’s multiple validated measures of the population’s sleep health with an established measure of depressive symptoms to examine the link between sleep health and depressive symptoms in teenagers,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs at the National Sleep Foundation. “As a licensed clinician and a parent, the time is now to think about the important two-way connection between our sleep and mental health. Helping teens build healthy sleep habits can have a lasting, positive impact on their physical and mental health.”
Also during Sleep Awareness Week 2024, NSF will be holding a Congressional Briefing entitled Sleep Health is Mental Health, on Wednesday, March 13. Members of Congress, staff, and interested stakeholders will hear from a multidisciplinary expert panel about the association between sleep health and mental health, plus discuss opportunities to effect positive change while Congress works towards comprehensive mental health legislation.
Sleep Awareness Week 2024 is sponsored through unrestricted funding and support from Avadel, Eisai, Inc., Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Waymo, Apnimed, Purecare, Asleep, Harmony Biosciences, Idorsia, NextSense, Variowell, PocketKado, Ozlo, Samsung Health, and Withings.
Collaborators include American Heart Association, National PTA, Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Organization for Youth Safety, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Rural Minds, National Coalition for the Homeless, and Higi who, among many other organizations and agencies, help to promote NSF’s sleep health messages.
For more sleep health information and to learn ways to help be your Best Slept Self®, visit www.theNSF.org.
If you’re still not getting the sleep you need after taking some basic steps, or if you have lasting symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider. That’s especially true if you are having challenges with your mood or feelings of depression. You are not alone. For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek care. Contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. TheNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
About the Sleep in America® Poll
The Sleep in America Poll is the National Sleep Foundation’s premier annual review of current sleep topics. The Poll was first conducted in 1991 and has been produced since 2018 by Langer Research Associates. The full Sleep in America Poll findings, including methodology, can be found at theNSF.org/sleep-in-america-polls/.
For Immediate Release Contact: NSF Communications NSFmedia@theNSF.org
National Sleep Foundation Announces 2024 Dates for Sleep Awareness Week®
Campaign to include Congressional Briefing on Sleep and Mental Health
Washington, D.C. (January 24, 2024): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) announced Sleep Awareness Week® 2024 will take place from March 10-16. Sleep Awareness Week, now in its 26th year, is the NSF’s annual campaign emphasizing the importance of sleep to health and well-being and a call to action for the public to prioritize getting enough of the quality sleep they need.
As part of this year’s campaign, NSF further announced it will hold a Congressional Briefing on sleep health and mental health on Wednesday, March 13. The Briefing is entitled Sleep Health is Mental Health. Members of Congress, staff, and interested stakeholders will hear from a multidisciplinary expert panel about the association between sleep health and mental health, plus discuss opportunities to effect positive change while Congress works towards comprehensive mental health legislation.
Established in 1998 by the National Sleep Foundation, Sleep Awareness Week is the premier awareness and education campaign for sleep health. Each year, NSF releases the results of its hallmark Sleep in America® Poll during the campaign week. The Sleep in America poll helps the public understand key attitudes, behaviors, and experiences with sleep health and explores a broad range of topics from aging, to exercise, to pain, to incorporating healthy sleep behaviors into daily living. Most recently, the 2023 Sleep in America poll reinforced how sleep health and healthy sleep behaviors are strongly associated with mental health in adults.
“National Sleep Foundation continues to be a unique, evergreen resource for the public and any organization concerned about the connection between sleep and health,” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, Chair of the NSF Board of Directors. “During Sleep Awareness Week we are excited to release important results and the latest insights from our newest research with the public: these data continue to reveal opportunities to increase the importance of sleep health among the public.”
Sleep Awareness Week begins at the start of Daylight Saving Time when most Americans change their clocks and lose an hour of sleep.
“If we want to improve our health and look and feel our best, we can start by focusing on our sleep,” said John Lopos, CEO of NSF. “NSF is here to help anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self® and ultimately that’s what our Sleep Awareness Week campaign and our everyday promise is all about.”
NSF independently produces the Sleep in America poll, Sleep Awareness Week, and all related official educational content. The campaign reaches millions of people in the US and abroad and generates billions of media impressions each year. Campaign materials can be found on the NSF website.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice.
Thinking about tech to help with your sleep? These options could boost your bedtime experience.
Getting the sleep you need is important to your health and feeling well during the day. If you find yourself wanting something more to help you fall asleep or stay asleep, you may benefit from using smart technology and sleep devices. These tools are designed to help improve your sleep experience, so adding them to your bedtime (or daytime!) routine may provide solutions to your sleep challenges. Here are just a few of the product areas you may want to consider to help you understand your sleep better and improve your comfort in a sleep-friendly space that’s dark, quiet, and cool.
Sleep Tracker
There are many different types of sleep trackers offering a broad range of features. These wearable and “nearable” tech devices can measure your heart rate, breathing patterns, and body movement to provide feedback that may improve your sleep. Depending on the device, you will typically strap one to your wrist, wear it on your finger, or place it on your nightstand. Some trackers can also monitor sleep duration, sleep quality, sleep phases, and environmental factors like room temperature and light exposure. Many of these devices or applications give you a “sleep score,” with each one sharing different types of sleep data that make up the score. Consider this: the total score can be a high-level view of how well you slept, so think about the healthy sleep behaviors you did (or didn’t!) use before you went to sleep and got that score!
In addition, some track lifestyle factors that can influence your sleep by allowing you to input information about how much caffeine you drank before bed and whether you are feeling stressed. You can sync these gadgets to your phone or computer to track your data. Based on the data gathered, sleep trackers can identify patterns in your sleep habits and suggest tips that may improve sleep quantity and quality. Some devices even offer expert sleep content to help improve users’ understanding of their sleep. As an example, National Sleep Foundation sleep health education, tips and personal sleep insights are available to millions of Samsung Health app users through their Galaxy products.
Sleep headbands are another way to monitor and potentially improve your sleep. These headbands can generate audio tones aimed at enhancing the quality of deep sleep. Some even come with mobile apps that track your sleep patterns over time and measure key metrics.
Smart Mattress
A smart mattress is typically designed to track aspects of your sleep and monitor the temperature and firmness of your bed to provide a personalized sleep experience. A grid of sensors embedded in the mattress can automatically adjust the amount of support the mattress provides, increasing or decreasing the bed’s firmness based on the distribution of your weight and your sleep position. Smart mattresses are a growing category and one way to invest in your sleep, and there are multiple options available to suit your specific needs.
One type of smart mattress combines sensors and silent air pumps to inflate or deflate the mattress according to personal preference and gives you the option to choose manual or automatic pressure adjustments. Another type uses sensors to detect your sleeping position and modify pressure for support and comfort. Some smart mattresses have additional features, such as pre-warming the bed to your preferred temperature and customizing the firmness on each side of the bed to suit a couple’s different sleeping preferences. As smart mattress technology continues to develop, these products get better at “knowing” more about your individual sleep style and preferences, so they can be part of a more consistent, personalized sleep experience for you.
Top of the Bed
Smart pillows are designed to enhance comfort while monitoring and tracking things like breathing patterns and sleep habits. Some smart pillows include built-in speakers with the ability to stream podcasts, music, and audiobooks that only you can hear, helping you drift off to sleep faster. Other devices regulate your pillow’s temperature while you sleep and keep your pillow consistently cool through a thermo-regulation system.
You can also attach bed sensor pads to your mattress to identify your sleep habits. These high-tech pads connect with activity trackers to assess whether lifestyle habits such as eating patterns or physical activity may impact your sleep. In addition, bed sensor pads can communicate with other smart devices in your home to adjust your thermostat, lighting, and noise levels and set your alarm clock to ensure you wake up on time.
Lighting
Light is a very important factor for our sleep, linked to our natural circadian biology. Getting sunlight or equivalent indoor brightness early in the morning is a good thing, but light during the night can cause problems for sleep. Different types of light can affect your quality of sleep. Recent innovations in sleep lighting technology can help you create a living and bedroom environment that is more conducive to sleep, such as electronically controlled window shades and blinds, or smart bulbs that gradually fade when it’s near your bedtime and slowly brighten your room in the morning (some bulbs even mimic the color of sunrise). You can also purchase bulbs that shift from warm red hues to cool blue ones, depending on the time of day.
Other lighting innovations include operation through smartphone apps or voice-assisted tech devices–like Amazon’s Alexa, Samsung’s Bixby, Apple’s Siri, or Google Home–that let you control the bedroom lights wirelessly, so you don’t have to get up to shut them off when you’re ready to sleep. If you are reading on your tablet or watching TV at night, try using blue light filters to reduce your exposure to the blue hues that the devices emit, which can affect your natural sleep/wake cycle.
Sleep Environment
Certain devices can help you create a sleep-friendly environment to improve your bedtime experience, and may even help to promote sleep. Sound conditioners are designed to reduce external noises that interfere with your sleep. These can be white noise machines, which combine all noise frequencies to create a steady background hum that masks distractions. They may also be pink noise machines, which aim to improve sleep by releasing high and low frequencies to slow and regulate brain waves. Sound conditioners often produce calming and relaxing sounds, such as waterfalls, nature, soothing music, ocean waves, and rain.
Even home appliances like dishwashers, clothes washers, and dryers that are being designed to be quieter (and meet “quiet” standards) may help keep noise down in the connected living space, for people who run them close to bedtime.
Another way to improve your sleep environment: give the air quality in your bedroom an upgrade with an air purifier. Air purifiers remove harmful contaminants, such as pollen and dust. Poor air quality can affect the soundness of your sleep, which in turn can affect your sleep satisfaction. Keeping your bedroom air clean may help you sleep better throughout the night.
Let’s not forget about temperature. National Sleep Foundation generally recommends a sleep environment of around 67 degrees Fahrenheit, though individual needs can vary. Some “high-tech” sheets and mattress toppers are designed with specialized fabrics and materials, keeping heat regulation and cooling in mind. Technology in apps and climate control devices (i.e., fans, air conditioners, heaters) can coordinate and help manage the temperature in your bedroom and other rooms of your living space. Smart home technology is an evolving area that can help maintain a sleep-friendly environment.
National Sleep Foundation Launches SleepTech® Network Premier Community Forum for Stakeholders in the Sleep Technology Industry
Las Vegas, Nev. (January 9, 2024): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) today launched its SleepTech® Network, a new community forum for stakeholders across the sleep technology industry. The announcement comes from CES® in Las Vegas, a trade show that showcases the entire tech landscape. NSF is exhibiting at Booth 8604 in the North Hall in Tech East.
Among the inaugural members of the SleepTech® Network are organizations ranging from high-profile start-ups to representatives of the Fortune Global 500, reflecting important segments including consumer electronics, digital therapeutics, mobility, consumer home products, and sleep-monitoring AI software. Members include Asleep, Pocket Kado, PureCare, Samsung Health, Variowell, and Waymo.
NSF’s SleepTech Network benefits members through education, insights, and access, including to NSF resources and each other. Each organization can stay informed and up-to-date with the latest NSF research and data on sleep health technology, while network members learn about advances with other professionals in the field of SleepTech, discuss sleep technology issues and opportunities, and interact with peers at NSF-hosted educational events.
Kickoff activities for SleepTech® Network members include a briefing on rates of electronic device use before bedtime and associated sleep characteristics, along with public beliefs about the sleep-related consequences of pre-sleep electronic use. Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, NSF’s Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs will lead the briefing, exploring NSF’s newest research results and key findings.
“NSF sees the potential SleepTech® has to help the public’s health and well-being. It’s a fast-growing global industry, and NSF’s role is not just to advocate for and support innovation in this space, but also to do our part and help others understand and navigate it in a way that can improve sleep health,” said John Lopos, NSF CEO.
NSF is committed to making science-based SleepTech more accessible and convenient so anyone and everyone can be their Best Slept Self®. For over 30 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep for health and well-being. NSF has promoted positive sleep health through published expert recommendations, consensus guidelines, technology standards, and easy-to-use tips and tools to improve sleep.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Embr Labs and Pocket Kado Win National Sleep Foundation’s 2023 SleepTech® Award
Washington, D.C. (December 6, 2023): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) named Embr Labs and Pocket Kado as winners of the 2023 SleepTech®Award. NSF’s SleepTechAward recognizes the year’s most innovative efforts in advancing sleep technology and is a feature of NSF’s ongoing work to encourage and celebrate efforts by which sleep science and insight are rapidly incorporated into accessible health products and services.
The SleepTech Award is given in two categories: Sleep Health and Wellness, which includes products and services consumers can use as part of their daily routine for sleep and health; and Sleep Disorders and Conditions, which includes solutions that seek to improve the patient experience for diagnosis and treatment.
Embr Labs’ Ember Wave® is the winner in the Sleep Health and Wellness category. As described by Embr Labs, the Ember Wave wrist-worn device delivers soothing cool or warm waves of temperature to the inside of the wrist to help users drift off to sleep, diminish nighttime bursts of warmth or night sweats that can disrupt sleep, and prevent returning to sleep, and help keep users from waking throughout the night.
Pocket Kado, the winner in the Sleep Disorders and Conditions category, describes their product as the world’s first science-backed virtual pet game to help users sleep. Through gameplay, users can develop their sleep hygiene and maintain routines that align with their circadian rhythm, which also may help users live well with insomnia, including if they have completed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
“We congratulate Embr Labs and Pocket Kado for winning our 2023 SleepTech Award. Both organizations have innovative approaches that draw from sleep science and insight, offering the potential to help people get the quality sleep they need,” said John Lopos, National Sleep Foundation CEO.
“We are honored and grateful to be recognized by the National Sleep Foundation for the positive impact that the Embr Wave can have on sleep. Receiving the SleepTech® Award is a testament to the power of temperature to improve well-being. We believe quality sleep is the foundation of a healthy, happy life, and Embr Wave can be a powerful option for anyone looking to improve their sleep,” said Sam Shames, Co-founder and COO of Embr Labs.
“We are elated to receive the National Sleep Foundation’s SleepTech® Award after developing Pocket Kado with sleep experts for the past several years. This award is especially meaningful as we share NSF’s mission to make healthy sleep accessible to everyone. With this award, we aim to inspire further collaboration between technology companies and clinical scientists, as our understanding of sleep evolves,” said Khoa Tran, CEO of Pocket Kado.
NSF would also like to acknowledge three SleepTech Award finalists in each category: Lumos, Oxa, and Ozlo in the Sleep Health and Wellness Category and breathesimple, NextSense, and SleepImage in the Sleep Disorders and Conditions category.
For over 30 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep health to overall health and well-being. NSF has published consensus papers, guidelines, and standards for positive sleep health as well as easy-to-use tools and tips to improve sleep. NSF is committed to making science-based sleep tech more accessible and convenient so anyone and everyone can be their Best Slept Self®.
The National Sleep Foundation has no financial relationship with any of the 2023 SleepTech Award winners. For more information about the National Sleep Foundation, visit www.theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Congressional Resolution 853 Supports the Designation of Drowsy Driving Prevention Week®
Washington, DC (November 9, 2023) — Representatives Madeleine Dean and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, and Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware, introduced House Resolution 853 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Developed by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) and with additional data and statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the resolution supports the designation of “Drowsy Driving Prevention Week” to raise awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving and encourages people across the United States to take preventable steps against drowsy driving.
NSF is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice. NSF established Drowsy Driving Prevention Week®, held each fall at the end of Daylight Saving Time, to raise awareness about the importance of sleep and the risks of driving while drowsy. Drowsy driving is impaired driving. It is a relatable experience that is dangerously common, but preventable. Drowsy driving starts when people are young drivers. A recent NSF survey of teen drivers found in their first two years of driving, 1 in 6 teens have already driven while drowsy. 95% of teens also say drowsy driving is risky, but most rate drunk, drugged, and distracted driving as more dangerous. Similarly, adults consider drowsy driving less risky than other forms of impaired driving.
“NSF applauds Congress for recognizing Drowsy Driving Prevention Week. Drowsy driving is impaired driving and a public health concern that everyone can take steps to prevent,” said John Lopos, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation. “It starts by getting enough quality sleep to be your Best Slept Self®, which is important for our safe driving and responsibility to each other on the road.”
“Drowsy Driving Prevention Week raises awareness of the dangers of driving while fatigued or sleepy and educates drivers on how to keep themselves and others safe,” Rep. Dean said. “The National Sleep Foundation has been a leader in making our roads safer, and I’m grateful for their partnership in recognizing this week of advocacy to help save lives.”
For the past 30 years, NSF has educated the public about the importance of sleep health in relation to overall health and well-being. NSF has published consensus papers and guidelines for positive sleep health. Most recently, coinciding with Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, NSF has released a Drowsy Driving Position Statement.
For more information about National Sleep Foundation’s leadership in sleep health and Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, visit www.theNSF.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
National Sleep Foundation Study Results Show Drowsy Driving Begins During Teen Years New survey of teen drivers shows attitudes and actions about impaired driving, implications for sleep health
Washington, D.C. (November 2, 2023) – Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) released results of a new survey of American teens highlighting their attitudes and behaviors about drowsy driving. Teens reported driving drowsy at high rates, especially considering their status as new drivers. Teens also said school and job commitments were the top factors keeping them from getting the sleep they need to drive alert. A corresponding NSF survey of US adult drivers showed similar results about the top contributors to their drowsiness behind the wheel but with greater frequency of driving while drowsy. Teens and adults called drowsy driving “highly risky.”
Drowsy driving is a public health issue linked to thousands of car crashes each year, killing an estimated 6,400 people annually in the U.S. alone, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. NSF and other expert sources believe crash and fatality data are likely underestimated. NSF’s 2023 survey data show drowsy driving is common among American adults, where six in ten adult drivers admit to having driven a car when they were so tired they had a hard time keeping their eyes open. These findings are consistent with NSF’s 2022 results, reinforcing the ongoing need for education about the importance of sleep health.
Key results from teen drivers, featured this year, showed
In their first two years of driving, 1 in 6 teens have already driven while drowsy.
95% of teens say drowsy driving is risky, but most rate drunk, drugged, and distracted driving as more dangerous.
Most teens say schoolwork and jobs are the main factors that keep them from getting the sleep they need to drive alert.
Teen drivers with jobs are more than 2X as likely as those without to have driven while so tired they had a hard time keeping their eyes open.
“Other science and research previously established teens and young people are at high risk for drowsy driving. What we see in our results this year is many teens, early in their driving experience, say they’ve already driven while drowsy. Overall, teens know the risks of drowsy driving, but don’t think it’s as risky as other forms of impaired driving,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, Vice President, Research and Scientific Affairs, National Sleep Foundation. “The good news is – drowsy driving is preventable, and there’s a lot we can teach our young drivers about the importance of getting the sleep they need before they get behind the wheel.”
There are steps people can take to help lessen the risk
Get the recommended amount of sleep before you drive
While the feeling of a good night’s sleep varies from individual to individual, NSF recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults and 8-10 hours for teens of driving age.
Plan your long trips with a companion
A companion passenger can not only help look for early warning signs of drowsiness but also help with driving when needed. A good driving companion is someone who stays awake to talk to you and will be aware of your alertness.
Schedule regular stops for your trip, every 100 miles or two hours
Be mindful of warning signs of drowsy driving
Frequent blinking and yawning or having difficulty with lane and speed control are common signs that you may be driving while drowsy.
“At NSF, we’re dedicated to helping everyone prioritize their sleep for health and safety,” said John Lopos, CEO, National Sleep Foundation. “Getting enough quality sleep to be your Best Slept Self® is also important for our safe driving and responsibility on the road.”
NSF independently produces Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® and all related official educational content. Drowsy Driving Prevention Week 2023 sponsors include Waymo, Schneider National, General Motors, Samsung Health, Eisai Inc., and Asleep. Visit the NSF website to see a full list of collaborators for the 2023 Drowsy Driving Prevention Week campaign, including the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, National Alliance to Stop Impaired Driving, and Governors Highway Safety Association.
Join NSF to help prevent drowsy driving by sharing the campaign’s message on social media using the hashtag #SleepFirst. NSF’s drowsy driving prevention resources are available on www.theNSF.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │ SleepHealthJournal.org
You’d never risk being a drunk driver, right? You know the tragic results of a drunk driving crash are very real. There may even be a person in your life who’s been affected by drunk driving. We all know better than to drink and drive.
Similar to most teens your age, you probably think driving while drunk is riskier than driving while you’re sleepy. And that’s what most adults think, too. But, when people drive after sleeping four hours or less, it’s like they’re driving drunk. Almost everyone in a new study of over 1,100 teens said drowsy driving is extremely or very risky. But by comparison, almost 25% fewer teens in the same study said that drowsy driving had the same level of risk. It’s time to wake up to the fact that drowsy driving is impaired driving, too. Remember this: sleep first and drive alert.
The good thing is that most teens say they don’t drive while drowsy. If this is you, keep it up, because the statistics only get worse among adult drivers. So, where to start? Start with your sleep. Right now, life can be hectic and sometimes it feels like sleep is the last thing on your mind. But people 16-25 already are in the highest risk group for drowsy driving crashes. The good thing is your sleep is something you can take control of—be sure to get enough (as many as 10 hours a night) so you can stay healthy and ready to perform. That includes being alert behind the wheel if you are driving.
Here’s why teenagers are more susceptible to drowsy driving
Chronic Sleep Deprivation: Teens actually need more sleep than adults. Your brain is still developing, and NSF recommends that you get 8-10 hours of sleep each night.
Learning to Drive: Teens are relatively new to driving, which means you have less experience and fewer driving skills to rely on during emergencies.
Early School Hours: Many schools have early start times, which don’t always sync up with your internal body clock, also called your circadian rhythm.
Busy Schedules: Between school, jobs, family commitments, extracurricular activities, homework, and late-night screen time with friends, teens often sacrifice sleep to fit everything in.
How to ensure you get enough sleep
Prioritize Sleep: Try to put Sleep First™. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 8-10 hours of sleep a night for teens.
Naps: Short power naps (20-30 minutes) can recharge you if you’re feeling tired during the day. But don’t nap for hours – it’ll mess up your nighttime sleep.
Limit Screen Time: Cut down on screens before bedtime. That means less late-night scrolling and binge-watching.
Start Your Day with Light: In the morning, spend time in bright outdoor light to feel most alert.
Driving when you’re really sleepy is just as risky as driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or distractions. Not getting enough quality sleep can jeopardize your safety behind the wheel.
Stay safe on the road
Don’t Hesitate to Get a Ride: If you’re burning the midnight oil studying or coming home late from an event, don’t feel pressured to drive when you’re exhausted. Consider reaching out to a parent or a friend for a ride if you’re too worn out to drive safely.
Buddy Up Behind the Wheel: Having a friend in the car can help keep you alert. If your passenger is more awake, switch positions and let the alert driver take control. When embarking on long journeys, plan with your companions or fellow driver to switch every hour or so.
Take a Power Nap: If you’re feeling tired before hitting the road, take a quick 20-minute nap.
Spot the Warning Signs: Learn to recognize signs of fatigue among yourself and your friends, including frequent yawning, struggling to keep your eyes open, having trouble remembering recent miles driven, missing exits or road signs, drifting into other lanes, hitting rumble strips, and more.
Remember, we’re all in this together. And good habits you start now can be even more important as you get older. Let’s keep our roads safe and make responsible choices behind the wheel. Your life and the lives of others depend on it. Sleep First. Drive Alert.™
In an age where technology is advancing so rapidly, our lives have become more connected to devices than ever. Our daily routines are closely intertwined with smartphones and wearables, smart homes, and even smart vehicles. In this era of innovation, it is important to understand how these technological advancements can enhance two of the most critical aspects of our lives: healthy sleep and safe driving.
User Technologies: Devices and Wearables
In today’s fast-paced world, it is critical to prioritize and make time for sleep. Wearable technology is increasingly becoming a tool for people to monitor and learn about their sleep. Smartwatches and fitness trackers can now provide valuable insights into the quantity, quality, and benefits of our sleep. In short, they hold promise to help us get enough of the quality sleep we need to be our Best Slept Self® and be alert and ready to perform.
Built into many wearables are advanced sleep-tracking features that can monitor heart rate, body movement, and environmental factors like room temperature. Users can quickly and easily access detailed sleep reports, personalized information, and insights about their sleep that empower them to make informed decisions about their sleep health and performance. Beyond tracking sleep, wearable devices can function as alarms and reminders, helping us establish more consistent and healthier sleep routines. Some of these same wearable functions might also be used to help users stay prepared and alert for high-stakes tasks, such as driving a motor vehicle.
Vehicle-Based Technologies: Driver Assistance Systems
Modern vehicles are equipped with an array of innovations that can contribute to road safety. These systems aim to reduce the risk of crashes caused by either poor human choices or errors, which can often be worsened by poor sleep health and drowsiness. These advances continue to be an important tool in the effort to prevent impaired driving.
Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and blind-spot monitoring systems help mitigate risks and unsafe driving behaviors. These vehicle enhancements provide timely alerts and corrective actions when necessary. Ultimately, these technologies work with the driver to help reduce the likelihood of drowsy driving crashes.
The modern transportation landscape is evolving rapidly. Ride-hailing services are increasingly common, with autonomous driving options seeing opportunities in new markets. As autonomous cars become more available to users through ride-hail apps, they can offer an efficient and safer alternative to impaired driving when someone hasn’t had enough quality sleep to drive alert. In these cases, by eliminating the presence of a drowsy driver behind the wheel, autonomous technology can potentially revolutionize road safety. These vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors that see 360 degrees around the vehicle at all times and artificial intelligence algorithms that never get drowsy and maintain alertness to improve safety throughout the journey.
Looking Ahead
In an era where technology is rapidly changing the way we live and travel, it remains essential to prioritize sleep health to help stay safe. Until safety features are universally accessible, getting an optimal amount of good quality sleep is the best way to prevent drowsy driving crashes. NSF recommends most adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Even as technology advances, it’s important to remember the fundamental role healthy sleep has in keeping drivers alert and our roads safe for everyone.
This content was produced independently by the National Sleep Foundation and brought to you by Waymo, a sponsor of the 2024 Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® campaign.
A message from our sponsor: Waymo’s mission is to make it safe and easy for people and things to get where they’re going. From moving people to moving goods, we’re using autonomous driving technology to get to new places.
Sleep Health Journal Article Highlights Differences Between Adults Reporting Sleeping Issues to Healthcare Providers
Washington, D.C. (October 11, 2023): New research published in the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Healthjournal shows differences in sex, race, education, and other factors between adults at high risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who have and have not reported trouble sleeping to a healthcare provider.
Findings showed half of the sample never reported trouble sleeping to a healthcare provider. Those more likely to report sleeping issues were females, former smokers, had prediabetes or diabetes, and experienced OSA-related symptoms including snorting, gasping and/or breathing cessation during sleep as well as daytime sleepiness.
“Our work highlights particular groups of at-risk individuals, including men, Mexican American or non-Hispanic Asian people, and those with lower educational attainment, who may be less likely to have crucial conversations about sleep with their healthcare providers. What is also concerning is that people at risk for OSA who snore may not recognize this symptom as a reportable problem,” explained Staci Orbell, PhD, MSN, RN, the lead author on this work conducted at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing.
“Along the journey to improve our sleep health, self-care, and wellness, many people will seek the help of a healthcare provider. In those cases, two-way communication is critical,” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD. “NSF encourages the public to discuss any and all sleep issues they may be experiencing, and it’s important for healthcare providers to ask about sleep health and sleep problems, understanding there can be differences between patient groups about what they disclose.”
NSF is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. For more information about sleep health including information on sleep disorders, visit theNSF.org/sleep-health-topics.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
About Sleep Health®: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation
The landmark, award-winning, peer-reviewed journal Sleep Health publishes the latest studies on the cross-section of sleep’s role in population health and the social sciences from global, multidisciplinary perspectives. SleepHealthJournal.org
Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® 2023
Campaign Dates Announced
Washington, D.C. (October 4, 2023): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) announced Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® 2023 will be November 5-11. NSF encourages everyone to prioritize sleep and drive when alert and refreshed. NSF’s annual campaign goal is to help the public understand the risks of this form of impaired driving and reduce the number of drivers who choose to drive while sleep deprived.
NSF data show 95 percent of Americans think drowsy driving is risky, but a majority of drivers do it anyway. Additionally, 6 in 10 drivers (62%) have driven a car when they were so tired that they had a hard time keeping their eyes open, a projected 150+ million US motorists. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, drowsy driving is responsible for more than 6,400 U.S. deaths annually. Fall-asleep crashes are often caused by not getting enough of the quality sleep you need.
“Drowsy driving is impaired driving. It’s a risk to public health and safety that can impact anyone on our roads. NSF encourages all drivers to prioritize sleep and drive only when alert and refreshed,” said NSF CEO, John Lopos. “We can all do more to share or act on this message,” continued Lopos.
NSF independently produces Drowsy Driving Prevention Week and all related official educational content. NSF’s drowsy driving prevention resources are available on www.theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Washington, D.C. (September 13, 2023): New research published in the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Healthjournal shows bedtime procrastination was associated with poorer sleep health.
The authors explain bedtime procrastination is a common occurrence where sleep is delayed voluntarily in the absence of external obligations. Activities can include leisure activities like viewing social media or socializing with friends. Research findings showed that greater bedtime procrastination was associated with poorer self-reported sleep restoration, later sleep timing, less efficient sleep, and shorter sleep duration.
“Our findings demonstrated that, regardless of whether you are a night owl or morning lark, procrastinating your bedtime disrupts sleep. In our study, bedtime procrastinators reported insomnia-like sleep patterns, but further research is needed to determine the role of this bedtime behavior in sleep disorders” explained Steven Carlson, MS, the primary author on this work.
“National Sleep Foundation is committed to translating science and research for the public to help anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self®. Towards this goal, NSF encourages everyone to prioritize their sleep. As reported in the study by Carlson and colleagues, when sleep is voluntarily postponed, people tend to sleep worse. One effective way to help prioritize sleep is through establishing a healthy sleep schedule.” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD.
Utilizing a personal wind-down routine in the evenings, which consists of relaxing activities like listening to calming music, meditation, or journaling can help signal that it’s time for your body to go to sleep. Along with a sleep-friendly environment that is dark, quiet, and cool, people can set themselves up for a good night’s sleep. NSF recommends putting away electronic devices an hour before bedtime to also help prevent bedtime distractions.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. For more information about sleep health, visit theNSF.org/sleep-health-topics.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
About Sleep Health®: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation
The landmark, award-winning, peer-reviewed journal Sleep Health publishes the latest studies on the cross-section of sleep’s role in population health and the social sciences from global, multidisciplinary perspectives. SleepHealthJournal.org
You probably know it’s important to get enough sleep each night, but did you know having a consistent sleep schedule, or going to bed and waking up at the same time, is also important for your health and well-being?
Positive Effects of a Regular Sleep Schedule
Having a regular sleep schedule can positively affect key areas in your life including your mental and physical health as well as performance. Getting enough sleep from a regular sleep schedule can make it easier for you to cope with daily stress and less likely to be impacted by minor negative things that can come up. Other positive benefits of a regular sleep schedule include alertness, health and safety behaviors, and improved heart health.
How Do I Set a Sleep Schedule?
If those positive health effects sound good to you (and they should!), you might be asking how you can take steps to have a more consistent sleep schedule. We recommend three steps that can specifically help you set and stick with a sleep schedule.
Prioritize your sleep
Sleep tends to be the first thing that gets sacrificed when life gets busy with work, school, or family commitments. When you value your sleep, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can come more easily. The first step is to understand the benefits of getting enough quality sleep. By prioritizing sleep in your life, you’re setting yourself up to get enough sleep to help feel great and be at your best.
Use bedtime reminders and wake-up alarms
When it gets closer to your normal bedtime, use a reminder that alerts you it’s time to start your personal routine to get ready for sleep. In the morning, a wake-up alarm can help you get your day started without the worry of oversleeping.
Keep to your wind-down routine
Looking for something to help you fall asleep easier? A wind-down routine is a simple plan to let your mind and body prepare for sleep every night. Each person’s approach is different but could include relaxing activities like reading a book, meditating, journaling, or listening to calming music before bed. Staying consistent night after night leads to the best results.
What If I’m Not Getting Enough Sleep?
Most adults need between 7-9 hours of quality sleep a night to feel their best the next day. Here’s a fact: if you know you need eight hours of sleep at night to function your best and you are only getting six hours, you are building a sleep debt. The good news is there’s something you can do to help pay off that sleep debt. We’ve learned that sleeping an extra 1-2 hours on the weekends or “non-work days,” or taking short naps (as your schedule allows) can help most people start to offset the sleep debt they built up during the week.
The take-home message is that following a consistent sleep schedule is important for overall health and wellness in the long run. If you need to make up for lost sleep, sleeping in a little on the weekends is one way to help you get enough of the quality sleep you need to be your Best Slept Self®.
National Sleep Foundation Reinforces Consistent Sleep Schedules with New Consensus Guideline Features evidence-based benefits for health and performance allows catch-up sleep on non-work days
The NSF advances the public’s knowledge, behaviors, and practices by issuing definitive guidelines and recommendations for sleep health. NSF established an expert panel of some of the foremost authorities in sleep and circadian science to develop a consensus recommendation for consistent sleep schedules, reflecting an extensive analysis of the peer-reviewed literature on the subject.
The multidisciplinary expert panel found that consistent sleep and wake times are important for mental and physical health as well as academic and cognitive performance. Inconsistent sleep schedules are associated with negative health outcomes including obesity and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, immune dysfunction, cancer, and impaired mental health. Further, if sleep is insufficient on work days, sleeping an additional 1-2 hours a day (“catch-up sleep”) on non-work days can benefit most people as a method to help recover from sleep debt.
“The Consensus Panel concluded that consistent timing of bedtimes and wake times are associated with improved outcomes across multiple dimensions of health and performance—including alertness, cardiovascular and metabolic health, inflammation and mental health,” said panel chair and senior author, Charles A. Czeisler, MD, PhD, Division Chief of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Frank Baldino, Jr., Ph.D. Professor of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School.
Sleep is necessary for life. Getting less than the NSF-recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, for most adults, and/or having poor sleep quality are associated with adverse health outcomes. “Translation of science to the public is core to the mission of the National Sleep Foundation. The findings in our consensus report reinforce important steps everyone can take to be their Best Slept Self®,” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD. “Maintaining consistent sleep and wake times and utilizing non-work days to help catch up on sleep are two tools most members of the public can use to promote sleep health.”
NSF thanks its international expert panel for conducting the literature review and analysis. Collectively, the panel reflects decades of clinical and research experience, more than 1,300 academic publications, and a Nobel laureate. Members from the expert panel are affiliated with the following institutions:
Monash University
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Harvard Medical School
University of Oxford
Marshall University
Massachusetts General Hospital
LMU Munich
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Northwestern University
University of Washington
The Rockefeller University
Read the full results and methodology of the report here. For more information about sleep health, visit theNSF.org/sleep-health-topics.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
With children and teens heading back to school, it’s a good time to prioritize sleep as we adjust to new schedules. Good sleep health can help improve mood, attention, academic performance, and reduce stress.
Establish a Sleep and Wake Schedule:Sleep and wake times may naturally drift during the summer months. Moving back to a regular sleep routine a week before school begins can help children and teens begin the school year well-rested. Shift bed and wake times by 10-15 minutes a day until you’re back on the schedule you want.
Setting consistent times for sleep and wake will help children and teens stick to a regular sleep schedule. Keep in mind that children and teens have different sleep needs:
Children: Preschoolers (3-5 years) 10 to 13 hours
School-age kids (6-13 years) 9 to 11 hours
Teenagers: (14-17 years) 8 to 10 hours
Also, it’s helpful to consider that children’s biological sleep and wake time (sometimes called their chronotype) change with age. As children get older, their natural sleep/wake schedule will shift so they both get sleepy and wake up later. This normal shift to a later schedule is biological and reaches a peak in their early 20s.
Keeping these natural tendencies in mind can help to balance how long and when children need to sleep with their school start times. National Sleep Foundation recommends school not start for middle and high school students before 8:30 AM.
Model Good Habits: Help each of your family members be their Best Slept Self® by modeling good sleep habits during the day and night. It’s important that children and teens understand the importance of sleep for their health.
During the day:
Spend time in natural light, especially in the morning. Whether outdoors or inside, bright daylight helps you feel alert.
Exercise regularly. Aim for 30 minutes a day to increase your drive to sleep at night as well as reduce stress and improve mood.
Eat meals at consistent times day after day.
At night:
Avoid heavy meals, nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol before bed.
Use a consistent routine with a relaxing wind down to help get the sleep you need.
Put the devices away an hour before bed and sleep in an environment that is dark, quiet, and cool.
Heading back to school can be an exciting time. As part of NSF’s Bright Schools® initiative, NSF is committed to adolescent health and educating school-aged children and their families about the natural sleep/wake process and the importance of sleep for health.
National Sleep Foundation Hosts Congressional Briefing on Sleep Health Equity
Washington, D.C. (July 27, 2023): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) hosted the first Congressional briefing on sleep health equity. Members of Congress, staff, and interested stakeholders heard from an expert panel about the causes and consequences of sleep health disparities, steps needed to promote sleep health equity, and what Congress can do to accelerate this important work.
Sleep is necessary for life. Getting less than the NSF-recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, for most adults, and/or having poor sleep quality are associated with adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, mental health conditions, and mortality. People from historically underserved communities in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by social determinants leading to increases in poor sleep health and sleep disorders. It is critical to understand the sources of racial/ethnic sleep health disparities and promote actionable solutions to achieve sleep health equity.
National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) mission is to improve the health and well-being of the public through sleep education and advocacy. This Congressional briefing convened expert panelists from across the country for an essential conversation on social determinants of sleep health, focusing on potential solutions.
“The National Sleep Foundation believes that everyone should have the same opportunity to be their Best Slept Self®. Understanding the sources of racial/ethnic sleep health disparities and promoting actionable solutions to eliminate them and achieve sleep health equity is critical to the NSF’s mission,” said NSF Chair Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, and featured speaker at the event.
NSF’s Congressional briefing complements other ongoing NSF activities to help support sleep health equity such as growing the body of published evidence through its journal Sleep Health, proactive diversity and inclusiveness in NSF program topics and participants, expanded design and analysis of NSF’s population health research, and other internal progress towards NSF’s position on sleep health equity.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
Sleep Health Journal Article Highlights Association Between Experiencing Discrimination and Poorer Sleep
Washington, D.C. (July 25, 2023): New research published in the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Healthjournal shows experiencing discrimination is associated with poorer sleep. Discrimination is associated with higher anxiety and lower social well-being which are associated with poorer sleep.
Findings showed that discrimination was associated with a broad array of sleep outcomes across a 10-year period. Anxiety and social well-being were linked to reports of experiencing discrimination and negative sleep outcomes.
“Our findings highlight the unfortunate durability of the association between discrimination and sleep, a critical pillar of well-being. These effects were heightened in those experiencing chronic or an increasing frequency of discrimination. Feeling socially disconnected or anxious, in association with experiences of discrimination, predicted worse sleep” explained Natalie Dautovich, PhD, the primary author on this work, and Environmental Fellow at National Sleep Foundation.
“The National Sleep Foundation is committed to sleep health equity. These investigators added to the body of evidence linking discrimination with sleep health, specifically identifying connections between perceived discrimination and both subjective and objective sleep characteristics—over a ten-year span. Their findings are an important reminder that sleep is very much influenced by the social world in which we live.” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
About Sleep Health®: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation The landmark, award-winning, peer-reviewed journal Sleep Health publishes the latest studies on the cross-section of sleep’s role in population health and the social sciences from global, multidisciplinary perspectives. SleepHealthJournal.org
For Immediate Release Contact: Stephanie Kohn 540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
Sleep Health Journal Article Highlights Association Between Sleep Disorders and Relative Risk of Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts in Youth
Washington, D.C. (June 20, 2023): New research published in the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Healthjournal show sleep disorders are associated with increased risk for suicidal ideation and suicide attempt in youth presenting to emergency departments.
Findings showed that youth presenting to emergency departments with a diagnosed sleep disorder are at increased risk for having thoughts of suicide, or “suicidal ideation.” In fact, youth with at least one sleep disorder diagnosis had three times greater odds of an emergency department encounter involving suicidal ideation than those without a sleep disorder diagnosis. Results also showed that sleep disorders are underdiagnosed in youth presenting to emergency departments, relative to their estimated prevalence in the general population.
Dr. Casement explained, “In this nationally representative sample of youth presenting to EDs, suicidal ideation was predicted by a sleep disorder diagnosis alone and when accounting for mental health diagnoses. Furthermore, youth with a sleep disorder and either a mood or psychotic disorder had greater risk for suicidal ideation than youth with only one of these disorders. Especially considering our finding that sleep disorders are underdiagnosed in youth presenting to EDs, these results highlight the potential benefit of enhanced screening for sleep disorders as a tool for suicide prevention.”
“Sleep and mental health have an important and compelling connection, which has been part of our recent work at National Sleep Foundation. These investigators have added to the body of evidence about this relationship, specifically identifying the risk of suicidal ideation and attempt in adolescents who have a diagnosed sleep disorder. National Sleep Foundation is committed to helping all members of society, both young and older, with their sleep health—which, in turn, may yield valuable gains in mental wellness.” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. The NSF is committed to understanding the associations between sleep health characteristics and mental health in the general population and is especially focused on insights that may inform public health campaigns. For more information about sleep health and mental health, visit theNSF.org/sleep-health-topics.
For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek care. Seek care at your nearest emergency facility or, in the United States, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
About Sleep Health®: Journal of the National Sleep Foundation The landmark, award-winning peer-reviewed journal Sleep Health publishes the latest studies on the cross-section of sleep’s role in population health and the social sciences from global, multidisciplinary perspectives. SleepHealthJournal.org
For Immediate Release Contact: Stephanie Kohn 540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation Data Show Marked Decrease in Sleep Duration in US Adults Following Return from Pandemic Restrictions
Washington, D.C. (June 5, 2023): New data from the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Health Index® show a significant increase in the percentage of US adults who sleep less than the NSF-recommended 7-9 hours per night, as more restrictions were lifted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NSF has historically conceptualized sleep health as a combination of adequate sleep duration, sleep quality, and sleep satisfaction, and not the mere absence of sleep disorders. NSF developed and validated the Sleep Health Index® (SHI) as a way to assess the population’s sleep health and has administered it annually since 2014.
NSF’s findings showed a 40% increase in the percentage of US adults who sleep less than 7-9 hours a night (45% in 2021 to 63% in 2022). Changes in pandemic-related restrictions, such as returning to in-person work, school, and social events, may be associated with the observed reductions in sleep duration across the population. The WHO declared the emergency phase of the global COVID-19 pandemic to be over in May 2023.
“This effect is certainly alarming. We are still learning from this unique historical period, and these results reinforce there’s more work for us and others to do to improve population sleep health in response to what we’ve seen.” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, Board Chair of the National Sleep Foundation.
“Building on NSF’s previous breaking report about sleep in US adults during the global pandemic, one of the first to share multi-year data, we specifically looked at how Americans’ sleep health began to change after more people’s routines began to normalize. It is striking that we observed a significant decrease in sleep duration as the nation returned to more normal, pre-pandemic operations. We continue to analyze our dataset for new observations and design research we can translate to help the public,” said NSF Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs, Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD.
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. The NSF is committed to helping anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self®. For more information about sleep health, visit theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org
National Sleep Foundation Highlights Evidence in General US Population Connecting Sleep Health with Probable Depressive Disorder Analysis shows link between sleep health and clinically relevant depression symptoms
Washington, D.C. (May 23, 2023): Today, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) highlighted additional findings from its 2023 Sleep in America® Poll, which previously demonstrated meaningful connections between Americans’ sleep health and their mental health and wellness. Among key findings were that nearly 1 in 5 (19%) US adults who sleep less than the NSF-recommended 7-9 hours per night meet criteria for a probable clinical diagnosis of a depressive disorder.
Released during the 25th anniversary of NSF’s Sleep Awareness Week®, this year’s poll uniquely co-administered three NSF sleep health assessments—Sleep Health Index®, Sleep Satisfaction Tool®, and Best Slept Self® Questionnaire—along with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), an established measure of symptoms of depression. Importantly, the PHQ-9 can be scored in a way to identify adults whose depression symptoms are consistent with a probable clinical depression disorder.
Additional key results from the research showed:
One in every five adults (20%) with poor sleep health meet criteria for a probable depressive disorder
One in four adults (25%) who are dissatisfied with their sleep meet criteria for a probable depressive disorder
Almost 1 in 5 (19%) individuals who have difficulty falling asleep 2 or more nights per week meet criteria for a probable depressive disorder
Adults who performed high levels of healthy sleep behaviors are less than half as likely to meet criteria for a probable depressive disorder as adults who perform low levels of health sleep behaviors.
“Where our initial focus was to help the public and policy-makers understand the very real connection between sleep health and depression symptoms in the general US population, we felt it was important to further highlight results that gave a clinically-relevant signal, such as we saw using the PHQ-9,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs at National Sleep Foundation.
Sleep health is crucial to our overall health and well-being. As the United States continues to address the far-reaching effects of a national mental health crisis, this year’s Sleep in America Poll findings come at an important time and support the ongoing work of other leading public health and advocacy organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), multiple divisions of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the American Psychological Association (APA), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and Mental Health America, among others who recognize mental health as a critical issue facing our nation today.
“These results go beyond just alerting people that sleep health and mental health are linked,” said David Neubauer, MD, a practicing psychiatrist and member of National Sleep Foundation’s Board of Directors. “The findings suggest there are cases where the connection between someone’s poor sleep and depression symptoms may be clinically meaningful and possibly have implications for their care.”
For more sleep health information and to learn ways to help be your Best Slept Self®, visit www.theNSF.org.
If you’re still not getting the sleep you need after taking some basic steps, or if you have lasting symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider. That’s especially true if you are having challenges with your mood or feelings of depression. You are not alone. For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek care. Contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
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About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. TheNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
About the Sleep in America® Poll
The Sleep in America Poll is the National Sleep Foundation’s premier annual review of current sleep topics. The Poll was first conducted in 1991 and has been produced since 2018 by Langer Research Associates. The full Sleep in America Poll findings, including methodology, can be found at theNSF.org/sleep-in-america-polls/.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stephanie Kohn
540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation Announces Sleep Awareness Week® 2022 Dates
Washington, D.C. (February 18, 2022): National Sleep Foundation has announced its annual Sleep Awareness Week® 2022 will take place from March 13-19, with a call to action for everyone to recognize the importance of sleep as a crucial measure of their overall health.
Established in 1998 by the National Sleep Foundation, Sleep Awareness Week is recognized annually as the premier awareness and education campaign for sleep, when the National Sleep Foundation engages the public to prioritize sleep as a crucial measure of their overall health and well-being.Sleep Awareness Week promotes best practices for sleep health that include expert guidance and practical tips to help people get the sleep they need. Campaign materials and activities are found at the Sleep Awareness Week 2022 site.
Sleep Awareness Week begins on March 13 at the start of Daylight Saving Time, when most Americans change their clocks and lose an hour of sleep. During the week, NSF also releases results of the hallmark Sleep in America® Poll, now in its 24th year of surveying Americans on a range of sleep-related topics.
“National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week is a cornerstone program that’s part of our work to help the public be their Best Slept Self™,” says National Sleep Foundation CEO John Lopos. “Healthy sleep can be achieved through actions we take during the day and at night to ensure we get enough quality sleep to be at our best.”
Sleep Awareness Week 2022 is supported by unrestricted funds from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Eisai, Inc., Huckleberry, Avadel Pharmaceuticals, PureCare, Apnimed, and Harmony Biosciences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Safety Council are helping to promote NSF’s healthy sleep messages. NSF independently produces Sleep Awareness Week, the Sleep in America Poll, and all related official educational content. Sleep health resources for the public are available at www.TheNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stephanie Kohn
540-850-7827 skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Health Journal PublishesSpecial Issue on Sleep in the Family System
Washington, D.C. (February 16, 2022): The National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Healthjournal has published a special issue to highlight the central role of sleep in key aspects of family life, spanning individual functioning, relationship quality, and overall family health.
“We’re pleased that Drs. Douglas Teti, Liat Tikotzky and Helen Ball served as Co-Editors of this special issue and lent their expert perspectives,” said Dr. Orfeu Buxton, Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Health. This issue highlights the importance of understanding the intricate and significant ways sleep can interact with environmental and cultural factors to affect all members and facets of the family system.
“Sleep in children is intricately embedded in the overall family system.It can affect and be affected by parent cognitions, parent-child interactions and relationships, and the manner in which parents structure sleep and prepare children for it,” said Dr. Douglas Teti, Department Head and Distinguished Professor, Human Development and Family Studies, at The Pennsylvania State University and Sleep Health Associate Editor. Along with Dr. Teti, Dr. Liat Tikotzky, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology at Ben-Gurion University (Israel), and Dr. Helen Ball, Director of Durham Infancy & Sleep Centre at the Durham University (UK), edited the special issue and authored its editorial, which provides an overview of the articles in the issue.
The National Sleep Foundation is committed to publishing research that identifies ways to advance sleep health across all populations. The special issue can be accessed on the Sleep Health Journal website at SleepHealthJournal.org.
On February 23, 2022, Drs. Teti, Tikotzky, and Ball will host a live webinar titled “Sleep in the Family System” with select authors of articles featured in the special issue. For more information and to register, visit the Sleep Health Journal website.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice. TheNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stephanie Kohn
540-850-7827
skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation Journal Publishes Special Issue to Help Advance Sleep Health
Washington, D.C. (February 7, 2022): The National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep Health Journal has published a special issue as part of its efforts towards sleep health equity. The online issue represents a guiding framework for understanding the critical intersections of race-ethnicity, income, education, and other social determinants that contribute to the well-documented racial-ethnic disparities in sleep health in the U.S.
“It’s time to move the needle forward beyond the individual and shed light on the socio-political contexts that perpetuate disparities in sleep health across racial-ethnic groups in the U.S. The studies in this special issue highlight the science of sleep health as a powerful social justice tool that can be leveraged to promote sleep health equity within our society. #NoJusticeNoSleep”, said Royette Dubar, PhD, Assistant Professor at Wesleyan University and Associate Editor of Sleep Health. Dubar authored the special issue’s editorial which provides an overview of the landscape of sleep health disparities and introduces the articles in the issue.
“The National Sleep Foundation is committed to publishing research that identifies ways to advance sleep health across all populations. By identifying opportunities for additional research and giving a platform for it to be shared amongst the field, is one way NSF commits to moving the needle on eradicating sleep health disparities,” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, NSF Board Member and Chair of NSF’s Sleep Health Equity Task Force.
The studies in this collection provide important insight for efforts to improve sleep health equity. Manuscripts will be added over time, and articles will be open access for several months after they are added. For more information, read the editorial here and learn more about NSF’s Statement on Equality and the Need for Change.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stephanie Kohn
540-850-7827
skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation Publishes Position Statement on Sleep Health Equity
Washington, D.C. (January 27, 2022): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has released its Sleep Health Equity Position Statement. As part of the NSF’s mission to improve the public’s health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy, it is critical to understand the sources of racial/ethnic sleep health disparities and promote actionable solutions to eliminate them and achieve sleep heath equity.
People of color in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by poor sleep health and sleep disorders. The NSF Position Statement outlines key strategic changes needed to achieve sleep health equity, including: expanding evidence-based and culturally-sensitive sleep health resources, improving equitable access to clinical sleep healthcare, and addressing sleep health equity across the continuum of sleep health care delivery. Other strategic focuses include funding research and policy actions.
“Racial and ethnic disparities in sleep health are a major public health problem. Sleep health equity can be achieved through public investment in resources, education and training, as well as system- and policy-level changes,” said Temitayo Oyegbile-Chidi, MD, PhD, NSF Board Member and Chair of NSF’s Sleep Health Equity Task Force. “Identifying and understanding the barriers to sleep health equity is imperative as we ultimately aim to propose and support efforts to improve the lives of underrepresented Americans by optimizing sleep health.”
As a leader in sleep health, NSF will continue to focus on actionable solutions for underserved and underrepresented communities that help ensure everyone has the opportunity to get the sleep we all need. For more information, read the Position Statement on Sleep Health Equity.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. theNSF.org │SleepHealthJournal.org
Sleep Health Journal Article Highlights Importance of Later School Start Times for Adolescent Health
Washington, D.C. (January 4, 2022): The latest article published in the National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep HealthJournal highlights the importance of later school start times for adolescents.
Adolescent sleep health and school start times: Setting the research agenda for California and beyond—a research summit summary(Ziporyn, Owens, Wahlstrom, Wolfson, Troxel, Saletin, Rubens, Pelayo, Payne, Hale, Keller, and Carskadon) highlights key outcomes from the Summit on Adolescent Sleep and School Start Times held in January 2021 and hosted by Stanford University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. National Sleep Foundation supported the Summit, along with other sleep organizations and universities.
Sleep and circadian researchers at the Summit summarized the extensive body of research on adolescent sleep and school start time change, identifying innovative research areas and pressing questions that might be informed by California’s groundbreaking 2019 law requiring middle schools to start at 8:00 AM or later and high schools to start at 8:30 AM or later.
“Simply put, later school start times improve adolescent sleep, health, safety, and learning,” said Lauren Hale, PhD, article co-author and National Sleep Foundation Board Chair. “Moving forward, we need to identify the most effective ways to build school health policies that support student sleep, as well as educate the wider school community.”
Community-engaged sleep research using a multi-disciplinary approach is required to support school and community leaders delaying school start times. “This research is critical in helping to inform school and workplace policies that support the basic human right for quality sleep for all stakeholders,” said Rafael Pelayo, MD, article co-author and National Sleep Foundation Board member.
“The National Sleep Foundation is committed to improving adolescent sleep health and applauds the efforts of the research community studying the effects of school start time changes,” concluded Hale.
The paper’s conclusions support NSF’s Sleep Healthy Policy Statementon healthy adolescent school start times, including its recommendations for research and policy efforts to help communities move to school schedules that allow students an opportunity to get healthy sleep.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
The National Sleep Foundation Says “Happy Holidays” Means Being Your Best Slept Self™ Foundation Issues Tips During the Holiday Season for Healthy Sleep Despite Changes in Routines and Travel Plans
Washington, DC (December 23, 2021): This holiday season, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is providing tips to help Americans prioritize their sleep to improve overall health and wellness. During the holidays, routines change, and sleep schedules can be disrupted. With children and teens home from school, fewer hours of daylight, less time spent outside, and new sleep environments due to travel, it can be challenging to sleep well over the holidays.
Getting enough quality sleep is essential at every age and plays a vital role in strengthening immune system function and fighting illness. With today’s heavy focus on health, it’s the time of year when maintaining a healthy immune system is top of mind.
“Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, the regular cold and flu season, and ongoing concerns about COVID-19, now more than ever is it important to ensure we’re all getting the right amount of sleep,” said Lauren Hale, PhD, Chair of the National Sleep Foundation. “No matter where or how you celebrate the holidays, there are things you can do to be your Best Slept Self. At the National Sleep Foundation, we understand how disrupting the holiday season can be for sleep schedules, so we’re sharing our easy-to-follow tips to put better sleep at the top of the list of holiday gifts and New Year’s Resolutions.”
The NSF offers the following tips to make sure you sleep well this holiday season and beyond:
Set a Sleep Schedule: Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night and children and teens need 8-11 hours.
Make a Sleep-Friendly Bedroom: Sleep in a dark room that is quiet and cool. Blankets and sheets might need to be changed for the winter months.
Maintain Healthy Habits: Exercise daily and finish eating and drinking 2-3 hours before bed.
For more information and tips on how to maintain proper sleep habits, visit www.thensf.org.
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About the National Sleep Foundation The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
For Immediate Release
Contact: NSF Communications
703-243-1753
skohn@thensf.org
National Sleep Foundation Textbook for Public Health Professionals Expands Sleep Health Focus
Washington, DC (December 14, 2021): The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has published Foundations of Sleep Health, its first sleep health textbook. This new resource provides a historic and current overview of the state of sleep health, with an emphasis on the interaction between several levels of determinants and factors that influence sleep health.
“This new reference can help inform a broad audience in public health by sharing some of the latest research and principles of sleep health in a different context,” said Lauren Hale, PhD, Board Chair of the National Sleep Foundation. “Foundations of Sleep Health uses a distinct framework to present evidence supporting our current knowledge and highlights important factors that both contribute to and are impacted by our sleep,” added Hale.
Foundations of Sleep Health continues NSF’s work leading international, multidisciplinary expert groups to develop and deliver evidence-based resources including sleep health consensus guidelines and recommendations, standards in sleep technology, position and policy statements, and its peer-reviewed journal Sleep Health.
“Sleep is crucial to our health and well-being,” said John Lopos, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation. “NSF conceived of Foundations of Sleep Health to share our expertise and unique perspective in sleep health and engage broader audiences in our longstanding mission. The insightful editorial leadership of Drs. Javier Nieto and Donna Petersen as well as all of the distinguished expert contributors made this vision for sleep and public health come to life.” added Lopos.
“We were pleased to join NSF as the co-editors of Foundations of Sleep Health,” said Dr. Javier Nieto. “NSF is a major force in the sleep health field and we are proud to have contributed to this resource which expands the focus on sleep in public health,” added Dr. Donna Petersen.
For more than 30 years, NSF has educated the public on the importance of sleep health in relation to overall health and well-being. NSF has published consensus papers and guidelines for positive sleep health. For more information about National Sleep Foundation, visit www.theNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well- being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
During the holidays, the whole family’s routine can change. Children and teens are home from school, there are fewer hours of daylight, and families travel to visit loved ones. The changing weather can also make it more difficult to spend time outdoors and exercise. With all these changes, one thing should stay constant: healthy sleep habits.
Whether you spend the holidays at your home or away, there are things you can do this season to be your Best Slept Self™.
Set a sleep schedule. Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day, even on the weekends. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night and children and teens need 8-11 hours.
Make a sleep-friendly bedroom. Sleep in a darkened, quiet room and keep the room temperature between 60 to 67 degrees. You might also need to change your sheets or blankets to fit the weather.
Maintain healthy habits. Spend some time outside each day to get sunlight exposure. Exercising can also promote better sleep. Finish eating and drinking 2-3 hours before you go to bed.
Celebrate sleep this holiday season by practicing healthy sleep habits with the whole family!
