Australia wants some sleep: study

A RECENT study on sleep habits has found Australia is a nation full of sleep-deprived people, with a whopping 96% of Aussies saying they are waking up tired due to modern technology, eating habits and exercise.

In the nation's largest ever sleep census, 13,089 people were surveyed by CQUniversity alongside bed manufacturer Sealy, with alarming results.

The results have sparked concern for Australians who think they're getting enough snooze time, when they're really not.

"The study gives us valuable insight not only into the sleeping habits of Australians but also how modern technology is impacting our sleep, how our sleep routines affect men and women differently and why students think they need more sleep than anyone else," CQUniversity's Adelaide-based engaged research chair professor Drew Dawson said.

Contributing factors to lost sleep have been identified with people snuggling up to their pets causing interruption, noisy neighbours, traffic and heavy rain proving to cause restlessness and watching the telly, a distraction.

The results have also shown people who drink too much coffee and don't exercise enough struggle to sleep longer.

The survey found Aussies are among those who find it hard to switch off, as they're using their beds as an avenue to work from home, permanently being attached to their laptops, phones and internet connection.

78% of people admitted to working on their computers while they're propped up on their pillows, causing them to have a restless sleep.

The bedroom habits identified in the survey are also affecting businesses and potentially costing employers millions of dollars in lost productivity.

30% of respondents said they have called in sick due to lack of sleep, with almost 70% admitting to their work productivity being negatively affected due to feeling tired.

Shockingly, another 38% of respondents admitted to falling asleep at work, or during a meeting.

The survey unearthed the alarming impact lack of sleep is having on the nation's businesses, and also our collective health as well as our physical and emotional well-being.