Singapore is facing a worsening sleep crisis, with stress, anxiety, and financial concerns keeping many awake at night. The ResMed 2025 Global Sleep Survey has revealed that one in three Singaporeans (33%) knowingly struggle with poor sleep, exceeding the global average of 22%. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and intervention in sleep health.
ResMed’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Carlos M. Nunez, stressed the importance of sleep: “Sleep is as vital to health as diet and exercise, yet millions struggle in silence. This research highlights an urgent gap in awareness and action that needs immediate attention to improve global health outcomes.”
Poor sleep is linked to severe health risks, including cognitive decline, mood disorders, heart disease, and stroke. Conditions like sleep apnea, if left untreated, further increase these dangers. Experts urge those suffering from chronic sleep problems to seek medical help rather than endure in silence.
Women suffer the most
The study found that women in Singapore experience poorer sleep quality than men. On average, women report fewer nights of quality sleep per week (3.83 compared to 4.13 for men). Additionally, 38% of women struggle to fall asleep, compared to 29% of men. Hormonal changes, particularly menopause, play a significant role in this disparity, with 44% of menopausal women reporting difficulty falling asleep at least three times a week.
Lack of sleep is also affecting relationships. Almost half (49%) of Singaporean couples have tried a “sleep divorce”—sleeping separately to improve rest. Partner-related sleep disturbances are common, with snoring being a significant issue (33%). Women suffer more from their partner’s snoring, with 45% affected compared to 23% of men. However, a silver lining exists: 64% of those who have opted for sleep separation report improving their sleep quality.
The impact on work and health
The effects of sleep deprivation extend beyond health, impacting work productivity. The survey revealed that 73% of employed Singaporeans have called in sick at least once due to poor sleep, a higher percentage than in the U.S. (70%). Despite this, more than half of Singaporean respondents stated they would rarely or never take a sick day due to lack of sleep, often pushing through exhaustion rather than prioritising rest.
Despite the widespread issue of poor sleep, Singaporeans are slightly more proactive in monitoring their sleep patterns than the global average. While 45% of respondents worldwide do not track their sleep, 54% of Singaporeans do, with 18% using wearable devices or mobile apps to monitor their sleep every night.
If you’re concerned about your sleep health, consider taking a test to assess your sleep patterns and find ways to improve your rest.
