Nearly 70% of women say they frequently have a problem sleeping, with most of
them stressed or anxious, and 60% only get a good night's sleep a few nights a
week, according to a poll by the national sleep foundation.
But while 72% of working mothers and 68% of single working women are more
likely to suffer from insomnia, stay-home mothers have the worst overall sleep
difficulties.
The 'Sleep in America' poll found 74% of stay-at-home mothers suffered insomnia
at least a few nights a week and 59% said they woke up feeling unrefreshed.
"American women are struggling to cope with this lack of sleep," said Kathryn
Lee, of the national sleep foundation (NSF) in a statement.
"Women's lack of sleep affects virtually every aspect of their time-pressed
lives, leaving them late for work, stressed out, too tired for sex and little
time for their friends."
The survey, released this week, found that when pressed for time, one half of
women responded that sleep (52%) and exercise (48%) were the first things
sacrificed.
But when women were tired or ran out of time, 39% also reduced the time they
spent with friends and family, 37% stopped eating healthily and 33% stopped
having sex with their partner.
"Foregoing healthy lifestyle habits in favor of more time during the day is not
the solution. In fact, it can be detrimental to optimum health and
performance."
The NSF questioned 1,003 women between the ages of 18-64 for the poll to raise
awareness about the problem.
It recommended avoiding caffeine in drinks and any alcohol a few hours before
bedtime to improve sleep and finishing any exercise or workouts at least three
hours before going to sleep. A cool, dark and quiet room may also help.
Reuters
