Change mindsets to ensure sleep hygiene

Singaporeans live in a competitive, fast-paced society that does not leave much time for rest, else others will catch up in this rat race. Students throw the phrase “sleep is for the weak” around.

Sleeping is seen disapprovingly as a sign of laziness, while staying up late gives others the impression that one is busy and important, among other things.

Despite publicity from hospitals and the Health Promotion Board, sleep hygiene here is poor. Many believe that taking caffeinated drinks can compensate for sleep debt.

I am horrified that we have the lowest average amount of sleep in the world, especially given the multiple benefits of having enough sleep (“In global sleep crisis, Singapore clocks shortest average time asleep”; May 7, online).

Changing mindsets is a key step towards ensuring that citizens have enough rest. We must cease viewing sleep as synonymous with being a sluggard, and start seeing those who have enough sleep as being healthy, responsible individuals.

Just as those who eat healthily are being responsible, those who get enough rest are taking charge of their health.

The HPB could have pop-up advertisements on social media to remind users scrolling through their feeds that it is time for bed, just as Instagram has sponsored advertisements appearing on one’s feed.

Rest is important. Let us not sleep through this issue.