Sleep is an important physiological process and plays a crucial role in maintaining our health [1]. There is a growing body of research that points to the impact of sleep on health, and the connection between sleep and the development of certain diseases. Quality sleep benefits our brain function, immune system, heart health, hormone regulation and even mental health [2].
Meanwhile, findings from multiple research papers indicate a link between temperature, extreme weather events, and disrupted sleep. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly can be particularly affected by these events [3].
Sleep and environment affected by climate change
Climate change has the potential to significantly impact every aspect of human health. As the average global temperature continues to rise, extreme heat events are expected to become more frequent [4]. Other climate-induced extreme weather events such as floods and hurricanes are also on the rise.
Some studies estimate that a 1°C deviation in nightime temperatures over a month can be associated with an increase in insufficient sleep [5]. One paper found that heat waves had a negative impact on the sleep of newborns and their parents [6]. Weather events such as flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or other extreme conditions are also likely to increase mental health problems, resulting in sleep disturbance [3].
The impact of sleep disturbance on productivity and mental health
Besides being crucial in maintaining health, sleep is essential for energy and performance at work or school. Cognitive functions such as memory, alertness, judgment, decision-making, and attention span are all affected by sleep deprivation [7]. Research suggests that each additional hour of sleep per week can increase the probability of employment, as well as weekly earnings [8], and some studies suggest that people who sleep for 5-6 hours or less experience a decline in productivity [9]. Already, one third of the global adult population is estimated to be sleep deprived, a figure which could rise due to the sleep-related impacts of climate change [10].
Aside from productivity, sleep deprivation and events connected to climate change can be triggers for health problems. Insufficient sleep is linked to a higher risk of hypertension, stroke, anxiety and depression [11]. Climate change affects mental health in various ways, from raising stress levels, to contributing to post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety due to extreme weather events, all of which can negatively affect the overall quality of life and health. Mental health problems are also connected to sleep disorders such as insomnia or nightmares [12].
It is clear that climate change can affect both sleep and mental health. As temperatures continue to rise and climate-induced weather events intensify worldwide, it is likely that these impacts will be more pronounced.
