Australian's are becoming more aware of their sleep health

Last week Philips released the results of their global sleep survey. The study looks at the sleep habits and culture of 13 countries around the world.

So, what do the results reveal about Australians? 71% of Aussies recognise that sleep has a significant impact on their overall health. However, we are struggling to get the sleep we need. Over half of all Aussies have been kept up in the last 3 months due to stress. While, 53% of us have medical issues that impact sleep.

3 out of 5 Aussies say they are trying to improve their sleep health. The main ways we have tried to do this is listening to soothing music and introducing a sleep schedule. 18% of Australians also use prescription sleep aids to help them get some shuteye.

Interestingly, the methods people use to improve their sleep vary dramatically in different locations. Meditation is popular in India and improving air quality is popular in Poland and China. Asian countries are also more likely to try out specialised bedding as a sleep aid. Australians and Americans are more likely to turn to medication than other countries in the study.

Sleep is an essential part of our lives. This report shows that people across the globe including Australia are recognising the importance of healthy sleep, and the consequences of poor sleep - Professor Shantha Rajaratnam (Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and Sleep Health Foundation)