Poor sleep leads to excessive daytime sleepiness

Spending a decent amount of time in the land of nod each evening is not just important for reducing under-eye bags, it can also have a dramatic effect on a person’s overall health, one expert has advised.

According to the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association, poor sleep patterns can lead to a series of ailments including depression, anxiety and stress.

The comments follow the publication of a survey, conducted by Bupa UK Health Insurance, which looked into the health and happiness of UK residents in cities around the nation.

The survey found that London has the highest proportion of stressed people (50 per cent), while Glasgow has the least (36 per cent).

Manchester residents worry most about rising crime (64 per cent) and the credit crunch (58 per cent); Brighton has the highest proportion concerned about family health (69 per cent) but the lowest proportion worried about terrorism (21 per cent); while Norwich has the lowest proportion worried about personal health (39 per cent).

Experts from the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association believe that a regular good night’s sleep would help residents combat their fears and worries, enabling them to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Marianne J Davey, director of the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association, said: "There is [a strong] link between sleep and mental happiness."

However, it seems Brits are not taking heed of this advice.

According to the results of a survey by The Sleep Council for National Bed Month (March 2008), the British bed is in danger of becoming more of a communications hub than a place for sleep.

The survey revealed that eight out of ten people boot up a variety of hi-tech gadgets before bedtime.

Furthermore, 40 per cent rarely or sometimes go to bed at the same time as their partner, while one in four couples admit to always or regularly sleeping separately.

Ms Davey warned: "Poor sleep leads to excessive daytime sleepiness. This can often cause depression, anxiety, stress and for snorers they often experience social, psychological, employment and relationship difficulties.

"Restless nights can be helped by following the 'sleep hygiene' protocol. Go to bed at the same time, don't drink alcohol late at night - all the usual good advice for a good night's sleep."