If you’ve been struggling to get a good night’s sleep in the Philippines, you’re not alone. A recent study by Australian bed manufacturer Onebed reveals that Filipinos experience some of the worst sleep habits in the world, ranking third behind Australia and the US. On average, Filipinos get only 6.13 hours of sleep each night, dealing with noise pollution levels of 55.60 and consistently ranking in the top 10 for stress worldwide.
Noise and environmental stressors are significant contributors. Whether it’s honking cars in urban areas or noisy roosters in the provinces, the study highlights how difficult it is to get quality rest. Additionally, common challenges like hot summer nights without air conditioning, shared living spaces, and long commutes contribute to sleep deprivation.
The report also shows that sleep deprivation and insomnia are serious concerns, as evidenced by over 156,000 Google searches for “sleep deprivation” and 43,100 for “insomnia remedies” in the Philippines. However, while the study identifies the issue, it doesn’t offer concrete solutions beyond better sleep aids like mattresses.
For athletes, insufficient sleep can lead to a decline in performance and even increase the risk of injury. Experts advise that prioritizing sleep over workouts might be beneficial, especially when sleep deprivation becomes a regular issue.
Ultimately, the study underscores the systemic challenges that make sleep a luxury for many Filipinos, especially in noisy and stressful environments. Until broader changes are made, Filipinos will need to explore personal solutions to rest better and improve their overall well-being.