What is “sleep divorce” and why is it becoming increasingly popular among couples?

Experts claim that getting a “sleep divorce” from your significant other can improve your relationship, but the internet isn’t convinced.

According to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) last year, 29% of the U.S. population chooses to sleep separately from their partner.

This healthy practice is called “sleep divorce” and is particularly favored by millennials (those born from 1982 onwards).

Search “sleep divorce”.

The 2023 report was compiled after an online AASM survey of 2,005 adults, in which a third of respondents said they sometimes or constantly sleep in separate rooms.

Interestingly, nearly half (43%) of Millennials have chosen to sleep in another room to accommodate their bed partner, while 33% of Gen Xers (parents of Millennials) would do the same.

Baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) were less likely to have a “sleep divorce” from their partners, with only 22% claiming they would sleep somewhere else.

Additionally, it was found that men are more likely to take the couch or guest house, while only 25% of women surveyed said they would do the same.

What do scientists say?

Speaking about the impressive results, Dr. Seema Khosla, a pulmonologist and spokesperson for the AASM, said: “We know that lack of sleep can worsen mood, and those who are sleep deprived are more likely to fight with their partners.”

“There may be some resentment towards the person causing the sleep disturbance, which can negatively affect relationships,” she says.

“Good sleep is important for health and happiness, so it’s no surprise that some couples choose to sleep apart for their overall well-being,” he added.

Speaking about the coined term “sleep divorce,” Khosla explained that it simply means that people are prioritizing their sleep.

Warnings

However, he cautioned that if loud snoring is a factor in your “sleep divorce,” it may be best to seek medical attention.

“If your partner’s loud snoring is leading to separate sleeping areas, you should encourage that partner to talk to a doctor about obstructive sleep apnea,” they explained. “This applies to both men and women who may snore.”

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts, according to the Mayo Clinic.

There are different types of the disorder, but all have symptoms that include: loud snoring, morning headaches, insomnia, irritability, and difficulty paying attention while awake.