People always say sleep is crucial. Everyone knows that. But figuring out the right amount of sleep may be a bit tricky. Too little sleep leaves us groggy and prone to mental and physical illness. Surprisingly, too much sleep can also signal underlying health problems. So, how do we find that sleep “sweet spot”?

Generally, we are always told that the rule of thumb is adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. However, this is just a starting point. Publications on sleep duration consistently highlight that people’s needs vary greatly. Age is a primary factor, with children and teens needing significantly more sleep than adults. Infants, for example, require upwards of 12-17 hours, while school-aged children need 9-12 hours. Even within the adult range, what works for one person might not work for another.

Quality of Sleep & Health Conditions

The quality of our sleep is just as important as the quantity. We might log eight hours in bed but still feel exhausted if our sleep is frequently interrupted. Factors like sleep apnoea, restless legs syndrome, or even chronic pain can severely disrupt sleep quality. Poor sleep quality can lead to higher stress levels. So, if we’re consistently tired despite seemingly enough sleep, it’s worth investigating potential sleep disorders.

If we find ourselves regularly needing more than 9 hours of sleep, don’t automatically assume we’re “lazy.” Oversleeping can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Conditions like depression, heart disease, or diabetes can be associated with increased sleep needs. It’s crucial to discuss excessive sleepiness with our family doctor, also known as a General Practitioner (GP), to rule out these possibilities.

Listen to Our Body

Ultimately, determining our ideal sleep duration is about paying attention to our body. Genetics play a role in sleep needs. While we can’t change our genes, we can observe how we feel on different amounts of sleep. Do we wake up feeling refreshed and energised? Are we able to focus throughout the day? If not, try to experiment with adjusting our sleep schedule to find what works best for us. Naturally, sleep schedules are subject to change, influenced by our work patterns and schedules, lifestyles, and living arrangements.

For those struggling with having quality sleep, seeking professional help can be a direct way to help us out. A sleep examination can help identify underlying issues and guide us toward effective treatments or therapies.

Remember: Prioritising sleep is an investment in our overall health and well-being.

So better sleep = better health!