Recent research has revealed that sleeping excessively may be linked to a higher risk of death. A comprehensive study reviewed data from 79 previous studies, indicating that individuals who sleep for more than nine hours each night have a significantly increased mortality risk compared to those who sleep between seven and eight hours. This finding adds a new layer of complexity to ongoing discussions about sleep and health.
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of our well-being, alongside nutrition and physical activity. During sleep, vital physiological processes occur that are essential for recovery, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. The Sleep Health Foundation, a leading organization in Australia providing evidence-based information on sleep, suggests that adults aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. While some individuals may function well on less sleep, consistently sleeping fewer than seven hours is associated with numerous health risks.
Studies indicate that insufficient sleep can lead to long-term health issues, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. However, the question remains: Can too much sleep also be harmful?
In the recent analysis, researchers found that individuals who slept less than seven hours had a 14 percent higher risk of mortality compared to those who maintained the recommended sleep duration. Conversely, those who slept more than nine hours had a 34 percent increased risk of death during the study period. This aligns with findings from a 2018 study, which also identified a connection between excessive sleep and increased mortality risk.
While these findings may seem alarming, it is essential to note that the studies highlight a correlation rather than a direct causation. The relationship between excessive sleep and poor health can be influenced by various factors. Many individuals who experience chronic health conditions may require additional rest due to their symptoms or the side effects of medications. In these cases, longer sleep durations may reflect an underlying health issue rather than a direct cause of poor health.
Moreover, lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity are often linked to both poor sleep quality and health problems. Consequently, individuals with existing health issues might sleep more as a symptom rather than as a contributing factor to their conditions.
Understanding Sleep Needs
Determining the ideal amount of sleep varies by individual, influenced by factors such as age and overall health. Teenagers typically require more sleep, with recommendations suggesting eight to ten hours per night. Older adults may also seek longer sleep durations but generally need the same amount of rest as when they were younger.
For most adults, striving for seven to nine hours of sleep is advised. Importantly, the quality of sleep and maintaining consistent sleep and wake times are just as crucial for health. Establishing a routine, engaging in physical activity during the day, and creating a restful sleep environment can enhance sleep quality.
As many adults fail to meet the recommended sleep duration, focusing on achieving adequate sleep should take precedence over concerns about sleeping too much. To improve sleep quality, individuals are encouraged to avoid screens before bedtime, engage in relaxing activities, and ensure a comfortable sleep environment.
If individuals find themselves consistently sleeping longer than usual, it may signal an underlying health concern. Consulting a healthcare professional for persistent sleep issues is advisable. Resources from the Sleep Health Foundation can provide additional support and information.
This article features insights from Charlotte Gupta, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, and Gabrielle Rigney, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at CQUniversity Australia. Their research contributes to a growing understanding of the complex relationship between sleep and health.
