UPDATE: A shocking new report reveals that 91 percent of Australians are struggling to achieve restful sleep, marking a national sleep crisis. The study, titled The Great Aussie Wake-Up and commissioned by Holiday Inn Express, highlights that 93 percent of Australians frequently wake up too early, indicating urgent action is needed.
Sleep expert Olivia Arezzolo states that the data reflects a troubling trend that has escalated from a common issue to a widespread crisis. She emphasizes three controllable factors that can significantly improve sleep quality: light, eating habits, and temperature. “When you look at the biomechanics of the circadian rhythm, there are key factors which control it,” Arezzolo explains.
With 76 percent of Australians losing part of their morning routine, breakfast has emerged as a critical element for sleep regulation. Arezzolo warns against the growing trend of skipping breakfast, especially among Gen Z, where one in four individuals do not eat breakfast. “Breakfast is absolutely critical for circadian rhythm alignment,” she asserts.
To optimize sleep, Arezzolo recommends having breakfast within the first hour of waking and maintaining a three-hour gap between dinner and bedtime. She suggests a strict cut-off for caffeine intake—ideally before 12 PM—to avoid sleep disruption. “If you’re struggling to sleep, cut off coffee by 2 PM at the latest,” she advises.
The report also uncovers a troubling reliance on the snooze button, with 52 percent of Australians hitting snooze every morning. Alarmingly, 70 percent of Gen Z members are frequent offenders, with some tapping snooze as many as 120 times each month. Arezzolo notes, “Every time you hit snooze, you spike your cortisol levels, leading to anxiety and a ‘wired but tired’ state.”
She emphasizes that many individuals seeking sleep solutions often overlook foundational habits. “You can’t just pick and choose sleep strategies,” Arezzolo warns. “Circadian rhythm is controlled by light, temperature, and eating. You have to get these things right.”
In response to the alarming findings, Holiday Inn Express is stepping up by offering guests free hot breakfast at their locations across Australia, aiming to support healthier morning routines.
As this sleep crisis unfolds, experts urge Australians to reconsider their habits and prioritize quality sleep. With the stakes higher than ever, immediate changes could mean the difference between restless nights and restorative sleep. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
