Over a third of Americans opt for a 'sleep divorce,' survey finds

Survey Discovers Over 1/3 of Americans Choose "Sleep Divorce" for Better Sleep
A recent survey conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) reveals that a significant number of Americans are opting for a "sleep divorce" to enhance their quality of sleep. Whether it's to escape covers being stolen or enduring a restless partner, many individuals are choosing to sleep in separate rooms. The survey found that more than one-third of respondents occasionally or consistently sleep apart from their bed partners. Men seem to be more inclined towards this arrangement, with 45% reporting they occasionally or consistently sleep in another room, compared to only 25% of women.

Dr. Seema Khosla, a pulmonologist and spokesperson for the AASM, explains that poor sleep can lead to mood deterioration and increased likelihood of arguments with partners. The resentment towards the person disrupting their sleep can negatively impact relationships. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that some couples opt to sleep separately for the sake of their overall well-being.

Healthy sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships. Research indicates that couples experiencing consistent poor sleep are more prone to relationship conflicts, while sleep deprivation reduces empathetic accuracy, making it harder to understand or interpret a partner's emotions.

The survey also highlights that 43% of millennials, 33% of Generation X, 28% of Generation Z, and 22% of baby boomers occasionally or consistently sleep apart from their partners to accommodate their needs.

Dr. Khosla clarifies that the term "sleep divorce" may sound harsh, but it simply signifies prioritizing sleep and utilizing separate sleeping spaces when necessary. However, if one partner's loud snoring is the cause for separate sleep arrangements, it is advisable to consult a doctor regarding obstructive sleep apnea. This applies to both men and women who snore.

Loud and frequent snoring is not just bothersome; it can be a symptom of sleep apnea. Although not everyone who snores has this condition, snoring should be taken seriously, particularly when it is accompanied by choking, gasping, or silent breathing pauses during sleep. Such symptoms strongly indicate the presence of sleep apnea.

Other common indicators of sleep apnea include fatigue, daytime sleepiness, unrefreshing sleep, insomnia, morning headaches, waking up during the night to use the bathroom, difficulty concentrating, memory loss, decreased sexual desire, irritability, and struggling to stay awake while watching TV or driving. Excessive body weight is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea.
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For additional information or to locate an AASM-accredited sleep center in your area, please visit sleepeduation.org. You can view the 2023 AASM Sleep Prioritization Survey results here.

Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine

In conclusion, the recent survey conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine sheds light on the growing trend of "sleep divorce" among Americans. With over a third of respondents opting to sleep in separate rooms to improve their sleep quality, it is clear that prioritizing sleep is becoming increasingly important for individuals and their relationships. The study highlights the negative impacts of poor sleep on mood, relationships, and empathetic accuracy. Millennials were found to be the highest percentage of those seeking separate sleep spaces, followed by Generation X, Generation Z, and baby boomers. The term "sleep divorce" is not meant to be harsh but rather emphasizes the significance of prioritizing sleep. It is crucial to address disruptive snoring, as it may indicate underlying sleep apnea, a condition that should be taken seriously and treated by a medical professional.

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