Canada's sleep crisis deepens as 41% get less than seven hours nightly

A recent national survey in Canada has revealed concerning sleep patterns across the population. It found that 41 per cent of Canadians are getting less than seven hours of sleep per night. Among youth aged 12 to 17, sleep deprivation is also widespread, with 37 per cent failing to meet the recommended eight to ten hours. The study also highlighted that nearly 65 per cent of Canadians who do manage seven or more hours of sleep still report difficulties falling or staying asleep. Researchers noted that Canadian teenagers face pressures similar to those in the US, where a separate analysis of over 400,000 American teens from 1991 to 2023 showed a decline in sleep duration. Only 22 per cent of older US adolescents now get at least seven hours per night.

Early school start times are a major factor in insufficient sleep among teenagers. Screen time and social media use further delay bedtimes, worsening the issue. Poor sleep habits formed during these years often continue into adulthood. The findings underline a broader trend of sleep deprivation among both Canadian and American youth. Early school schedules and digital habits are key contributors. Experts warn that these patterns can have long-term effects on health and well-being.