Sleep is fundamental to health, yet millions worldwide, including Singaporeans, continue to experience disrupted rest. The latest findings from ResMed’s 2025 Global Sleep Survey—spanning 30,026 participants across 13 countries, including 1,000 Singaporean respondents—reveal alarming trends in sleep quality, workplace productivity, and relationships.
Singaporeans Are Living with Poor Sleep
Despite increasing awareness of sleep’s importance, one in three Singaporeans (33%) chooses to endure poor sleep rather than seek help—matching patterns seen in the U.S. and Japan while exceeding the global average (22%).
The study also found that Singaporeans struggle more with sleep disruptors, with stress (65%) being the leading cause, followed by anxiety (51%) and financial pressures (35%). This reflects a fast-paced lifestyle that leaves little room for restorative sleep.
Sleep Deprivation and Workplace Productivity
Lack of quality sleep affects job performance, cognitive function, and overall productivity. The survey revealed that:
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73% of employed Singaporeans have called in sick due to poor sleep—a rate higher than the U.S. (70%) but lower than India (94%).
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Nearly half of respondents feel their employer does not prioritize sleep health, presenting an opportunity for companies to promote better sleep habits among employees.
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Presenteeism—working while sleep-deprived—reduces innovation, efficiency, and morale, leading to long-term business costs.
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The Rise of “Sleep Divorce” in Singapore
Poor sleep also impacts relationships, with nearly half of Singaporean couples (49%) having tried sleeping separately to improve sleep quality. Among those who opted for a “sleep divorce”:
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64% reported better sleep
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Snoring (33%) was the leading cause of disrupted sleep
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Women (45%) were significantly more affected by their partner’s snoring compared to men (23%)
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While separate sleeping arrangements can enhance rest, experts suggest addressing underlying issues, such as sleep apnea, to preserve intimacy and relationship health.
The Gender Sleep Gap: Women Struggle More
The survey underscores a significant sleep disparity between men and women, with women experiencing more sleep disruptions due to hormonal changes, anxiety, and caregiving responsibilities:
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Women in Singapore report fewer nights of good-quality sleep than men (3.83 vs. 4.13 per week).
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38% of women struggle to fall asleep, compared to 29% of men.
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44% of menopausal women experience difficulty sleeping at least three nights per week.
Are Singaporeans Taking Action?
Despite acknowledging the effects of poor sleep, many Singaporeans fail to take proactive steps:
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54% track their sleep, with 18% doing so nightly—higher than the global average.
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39% use wearable devices or mobile apps to monitor sleep patterns.
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Only 24% take immediate action to address sleep issues, while 33% simply choose to live with poor sleep.
Prioritizing Better Sleep for a Healthier Future
Poor sleep isn’t just about feeling tired—it impacts physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, mood disorders, and cognitive decline.
Dr. Carlos M. Nunez, ResMed’s Chief Medical Officer, emphasizes the need for change:
“Chronic poor sleep impacts our relationships, workplace productivity, and increases the risk of cognitive decline, mood disorders, and serious health conditions like heart failure and stroke. For individuals with untreated or poorly managed sleep apnea, these risks are even greater. That’s why talking with a doctor about treating disrupted sleep is important.”
By fostering better sleep habits, using technology to track rest, and seeking medical advice when needed, Singaporeans can take control of their sleep health and enhance their quality of life.