July 13, 2023 – Would you permanently leave your partner due to stolen blankets? Probably not.
But greater than a 3rd of Americans decide to sleep individually from their partner to avoid common nighttime disturbances equivalent to snoring, insomnia and different wake-up times, based on a brand new study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
“Although the term 'sleep separation' sounds harsh, it really just means that people prioritize sleep and go to a separate room at night when necessary,” Dr. Seema Khosla, a pulmonologist and spokesperson for the AASM, said in a press release.
Poor sleep may cause bad moods, and other people who don't get enough sleep are also more prone to argue with their partner, based on Khosla. “Resentment can develop toward the person who is causing the sleep problems, which can negatively impact the relationship,” she said.
“Good sleep is important for health and happiness, so it's no surprise that some couples choose to sleep separately for their overall well-being,” Khosla said.
The organization surveyed 2,005 adults. Compared to other age groups, millennials usually tend to practice occasional sleep deprivation, at 43%. Meanwhile, 33% of Generation X said they accomplish that, 28% of Generation Z people and 22% of baby boomers.
45% of men reported occasionally or usually sleeping in one other room, in comparison with 25% of girls.
“Some partners find it beneficial to sleep separately,” says Erin Flynn-Evans, an advisor to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. said CBS News“Studies show that sleep disturbances in one bed partner can have negative effects on the other. For example, bed partners often wake up at the same time if one of them suffers from insomnia.
“The same is true if the chronotypes of bed partners differ, for instance if one is an evening owl and the opposite is an early riser. These different sleep preferences can have a negative impact on the sleep of each partners,” said Flynn-Evans.
However, she said sleeping with a partner can help people recognize that they have a sleep disorder or other medical condition.
Partners who sleep apart because of loud or frequent snoring should encourage their partner to talk to their doctor. The AASM points out, “Loud and frequent snoring will not be just annoying; it’s a standard symptom of sleep apnea.”