How did you sleep last night? If you’re like most people, probably not great. Recent data show that 6 in 10 adults aren’t getting enough sleep. While it might seem minor compared to other health issues, it can have serious consequences in the workplace. Poor sleep impacts employees’ physical and mental health, reduces productivity, and even affects job satisfaction and career growth. Learn more about how sleep influences health and job performance and discover resources to help promote a good night’s sleep.
Less Sleep, Less Productivity
Poor sleep directly undermines employee productivity. When employees don’t get enough quality sleep, essential cognitive functions, such as memory, concentration, and decision-making, can be impaired. This can lead to more errors, difficulty with analytical thinking and problem-solving, and reduced overall work output.
A survey by the National Sleep Foundation revealed that 60% – 70% of adults report sleep loss negatively affects their work, and two-thirds struggle to manage their workload and avoid mistakes when they’re tired. This decline in productivity results in significant financial losses. The Rand Corporation estimates the U.S. loses about 1.23 million working days annually due to insufficient sleep, costing businesses over $136 billion in lost productivity.
Sleep Deprivation: A Workplace Safety Hazard
Sleep loss isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s also a threat to workplace safety. Insufficient rest can lead to slowed reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of errors and accidents. This is especially dangerous in jobs that require physical coordination or attention to detail, such as manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. Research indicates that poor sleep is linked to over 7% of workplace accidents, contributing to nearly 25% of all accident-related costs.
Beyond Tired: The Health Risks of Sleep Loss
The consequences of sleep loss extend beyond simple tiredness. Research confirms a link between sleep quality and physical health. A lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making employees more susceptible to common illnesses. One study found that those averaging less than seven hours of sleep are nearly three times more likely to catch a cold.
But the risks don’t stop there. Poor sleep also elevates the risk of serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
When Sleep Suffers, So Does Job Satisfaction
The impact of sleep extends beyond physical health – it can also affect job satisfaction and professional growth. One study found that as sleep issues increase, job satisfaction decreases. Moreover, career advancement is jeopardized for employees with persistent sleep issues, with burnout more likely when sleep issues are chronic.
The Emotional Toll: Sleep Loss and Workplace Mood
Lack of sleep can also lead to heightened irritability, mood swings, and higher stress levels. This emotional turbulence can create a strained work environment, affecting teamwork and collaboration. It can also contribute to absenteeism and counterproductive work behaviors, impacting overall productivity and morale.
The Exercise-Sleep Connection: Active Days, Restful Nights
Regular physical activity is a proven pathway to better sleep, which, in turn, benefits overall health and workplace productivity. Here’s how exercise helps:
Better Sleep Quality: Regular exercise can help people fall asleep more quickly and get more restorative sleep. Moderate aerobic exercise increases the amount of slow-wave sleep, the deep sleep stage where the brain and body have a chance to rejuvenate.
More Hours of Sleep: Regular physical activity can help increase sleep duration, helping to get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Improved Mood and Mental Clarity: Exercise can stabilize mood and reduce irritability, creating a more positive and harmonious work environment.
Aaptiv: Restful and Relaxing Resources for Better Sleep
Beyond its extensive library of on-demand exercise programs, Aaptiv’s dedicated in-app Sleep Section offers a range of resources designed to improve sleep quality. From gentle nighttime stretches to guided visualizations and breathing techniques, Aaptiv helps employees achieve optimal sleep, enhancing both their overall health and workplace performance.
Learn more about Aaptiv employee fitness and wellness benefit solutions.
