Download Issue   |   Print Article

Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Disrupt a Majority of American’s Sleep *ONLINE ONLY*

July 2025

By American Academy of Sleep Medicine

“Stress and anxiety can significantly disrupt sleep patterns by triggering the body's fight-or-flight response, making it difficult to relax,” said Jennifer Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist and past president of the AASM. “When the mind is racing with worries, it becomes nearly impossible to achieve the deep, restorative sleep we need for overall health.”

It’s not just stress and anxiety keeping Americans tossing and turning at night. The survey also found that over half of Americans (55%) report sometimes, always, or often experiencing disrupted sleep due to depression.

“Many Americans find themselves caught in a loop: Mental health conditions disrupt their sleep, and poor sleep worsens their mental health conditions,” Martin noted. “This cycle can lead to a range of health issues, beyond just daytime sleepiness. Insufficient sleep can impair cognitive function, affect mood, and diminish overall quality of life.”

For individuals facing anxiety, stress, and depression who seek to improve their sleep quality, the AASM recommends the following tips to promote healthy sleep:

• Create a relaxing environment: Make your bedroom a calming space. Keep it dark, quiet, and cool, and invest in comfortable bedding.

• Practice relaxation techniques: Engage in activities such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling to help calm and clear your mind before bedtime.

• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep quality.

• Stay active: Physical activity can boost your energy, reduce your stress and improve your mood. Aim to exercise regularly but try to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.

• Mind your diet: Eat a balanced diet and avoid heavy meals right before going to bed. If you’re hungry, consider eating a light snack.

• Seek professional help: If stress and anxiety continue to disrupt your sleep, consider talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide coping strategies and support.

“Addressing these intertwined challenges requires a holistic approach, focusing not only on improving sleep but also on managing stress and emotional well-being,” Martin added.

Anyone who has a sleep problem can use the AASM’s sleep center directory to get help from the sleep team at an accredited sleep center. View 2024 AASM Sleep Prioritization Survey results in the AASM newsroom. www.aasm.org