Did you get a good night’s sleep? Most statistics say you probably didn’t. In fact, according to businesswire.com, 83% of Americans say they do not get a good night’s sleep on a regular basis.
If nothing else, it is good to know that I am not alone. I remember my father getting by on very little sleep. He would be up before dawn every day, and I don’t think he owned an alarm clock. He did own a recliner, though, and was known to use it for Sunday afternoon naps. Me, too.
Many people have told me that, the older they get, the less sleep they seem to need. At 53 years old, I am beginning to relate. I do have an old alarm clock, but I am not really sure how to set it. Despite the reported dangers of having cell phones near you for too long, like many of you, I rely on my phone for alarms when I need them.
I do value sleep, as I know how it is a necessary part of feeling my best. That’s why these statistics from sleepfoundation.org are especially alarming.
Almost half of all Americans say they feel sleepy during the day between three and seven days per week. That’s just those who say they “feel sleepy.” The rest must consume a large amount of coffee or energy drinks.
More than 35% of all adults in the U.S. report sleeping, on average, less than seven hours per night. For adults, that doesn’t surprise me. Teenagers? That’s an entirely different story.
Does where we live impact how much we sleep? Apparently, yes. Hawaii has the highest percentage of adults (43%) who get seven or fewer hours of sleep per night. South Dakota has the lowest (26%). Scenery might have something to do with it. If you were in Hawaii, would you want to spend your time sleeping?
Females seem to struggle with this sleep thing more than males. Women have a lifetime likelihood of insomnia that is as much as 40% higher than that of men. Maybe it is because the men are snoring? My wife says I sound like a Sleestack.
You may think this is all something worth talking about. Well, it is — even in your sleep. Up to 66% of people say they have talked in their sleep, but only 17% of people say it has happened in the last three months. Yes, more Sleestack.
So what is the point of all this? Grab a cup of coffee and get your day started. Then get to bed early and rest. You will be glad you did, and others will likely notice, too.
Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
