Sleep is fundamental to human health, yet nearly half of Australia’s population report 2 or more sleep related problems, and are struggling to get the quality and quantity of sleep they need. There is mounting evidence that poor sleep doesn’t just make people feel tired, but drives significant negative consequences across physical health, mental wellbeing, productivity, and quality of life.
Up to 40% of Australians are getting insufficient sleep, 10% live with chronic insomnia, and 15% are potentially affected by sleep apnoea, some experts are calling Australia’s issues getting to sleep a health crisis that is being overlooked by Australia’s overarching health policies.
The health toll of sleep deprivation
According to the Australasian Sleep Association’s and NEST report, Waking Up To Australia’s Sleep Health, inadequate sleep is a significant risk factor for accidents and injury, and a modifiable risk factor for multiple chronic health conditions, and all-cause mortality – in other words, getting sufficient sleep can affect nearly every system in the body.
Physical health
Chronic lack of sleep is linked with an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and a weakened immune system. Sleep helps regulate hormones, blood sugar and supports recovery, which means insufficient sleep may contribute to metabolic and inflammatory diseases.
Brain and mood
Poor sleep impairs memory, attention, emotional regulation, and decision-making. People experiencing sleep issues often report irritability, difficulty concentrating, and mood disturbances, which can strain relationships and work performance.
Mental health
There’s a strong connection between sleep and mental health: ongoing sleep problems can worsen anxiety and depression, and conversely, these conditions can make sleep more difficult.
Many Australians are falling short of the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night, with stress, anxiety, financial pressures and high screen time frequently cited as barriers to restful sleep.
The Social and Economic Impact
Beyond personal wellbeing, poor sleep is a national concern. Chronic sleep problems are costing Australians in terms of lost productivity (youth in particular report missing up to five days of productive capacity each week due to tiredness), and a large portion of the population turns to sleep medication as a short-term fix.
How Australians Are Trying to Improve Their Sleep
Despite widespread sleep challenges, many Australians are actively experimenting with strategies to get better rest.
Practical Lifestyle and Behavioural Strategies
Sleep hygiene and routines: Adopting consistent bedtimes and wake times, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a calm sleeping environment are foundational steps recommended by sleep experts.
Avoiding stimulants: Reducing caffeine and nicotine intake, especially later in the day, and limiting alcohol can support deeper, more restorative sleep.
Daytime habits: Regular physical activity, exposure to daylight, and avoiding excessive napping help build a stronger sleep drive.
Environmental tweaks: Calmer, cooler and darker bedrooms, sometimes with the help of earplugs, blackout blinds or white noise machines, can make it easier to fall and stay asleep.
Survey data suggests that almost half of Australians have tried setting a regular sleep schedule or cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, while some use sleep-focused supplements or seek professional advice to address persistent issues.
Medical and Therapeutic Approaches
For some people, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, especially if the underlying cause for their sleep disturbance is a physical one. Healthcare professionals can help diagnose underlying sleep disorders (like insomnia or sleep apnoea), and recommend evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which can be an effective non-medication approach to getting better sleep, and is focused on changing thoughts and behaviours around sleep.
Sleep clinics and specialist support can also offer respite for complex cases, such as sleep-disordered breathing.
Alternative Health Therapies For Sleep
Alternative Therapies may help improve sleep for some people by addressing underlying factors that interfere with restful sleep, such as chronic pain, anxiety, stress, and certain sleep disorders.
Specific aspects of Alternative Health treatments are thought to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep–wake cycles, relaxation, and pain perception. Alternative Health treatments may help some individuals fall asleep more easily, reduce night-time awakenings, and improve overall sleep quality, particularly when sleep disturbance is linked to pain or anxiety.
Trends and Behaviours
Australians are also embracing less conventional ideas to improve rest. Some couples have adopted “sleep separation” (sleeping in separate beds or rooms) to reduce disturbances; a practice reported to enhance sleep quality for many.
Others track their sleep with wearable devices and apps, or prioritise relaxation practices such as mindfulness, reading, or natural soundscapes before bed, reflecting a growing “sleep curiosity” in the community.
Better Sleep Means Better Health
Sleep isn’t a luxury, but a vital component of health, productivity and general wellbeing. Poor sleep can affect us physically, mentally and economically, but today, we have more access than ever before to a range of strategies that can help Australians to improve their rest.
From establishing better sleep routines and environments, to seeking professional treatment for underlying conditions, and exploring Alternative Therapies, many are learning that sleep can, and should, be prioritised. With greater awareness, supportive healthcare, and personalised approaches, achieving better sleep is within reach, helping Australians wake up healthier, happier and more resilient each day.
