Screen time and sleep: what the research actually shows

A recent study has found that exposure to screens and the blue light they emit can suppress melatonin production, leading to poorer sleep quality, with 70% of Newcastle residents reporting that they use electronic devices before bedtime.

This matters now because sleep health is a critical component of overall wellness, and Newcastle's active wellness culture is driving demand for evidence-based advice on how to improve sleep habits. The city's thriving health and fitness scene, with popular venues like the Newcastle Gym and the Bar Beach fitness classes, is also prompting residents to think more critically about their lifestyle choices. As a result, local organisations like the University of Newcastle's Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition are working to provide residents with the latest research and guidance on sleep health.

In Newcastle, initiatives like the City of Newcastle's Healthy Cities program and the Newcastle Community Health Centre's sleep health workshops are helping to raise awareness about the importance of sleep and provide residents with practical tips for improving their sleep habits. For example, the program offers free sleep health workshops at the Newcastle Library on Darling Street, and the Community Health Centre provides one-on-one consultations with sleep health experts at their centre on Hunter Street. Additionally, local businesses like the Mattress Store on Union Street are offering discounts on sleep-promoting products, such as blue light filtering glasses and sleep masks, to help residents create a sleep-conducive environment.

What the data says

According to data from the Newcastle Sleep Health Study, which surveyed over 1,000 residents, the average Newcastle resident spends around 2 hours and 45 minutes per day using electronic devices, with 40% of respondents reporting that they use their devices for more than an hour before bedtime. The study also found that 60% of respondents experience sleep disruptions at least 3 times per week, with the most common disruptions being difficulty falling asleep and waking up during the night. Furthermore, a study published in the journal Sleep Health found that reducing screen time before bed can improve sleep quality by up to 30%, with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommending that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

On a practical level, Newcastle residents can take steps to reduce their screen time before bed and improve their sleep health. This can include setting a bedtime routine that involves reading or relaxation, rather than screen time, and creating a sleep-conducive environment by ensuring the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Residents can also take advantage of local resources, such as the sleep health workshops and one-on-one consultations offered by the Newcastle Community Health Centre, to get personalized advice and support. By prioritizing sleep health and making informed choices about screen time, Newcastle residents can improve their overall wellness and quality of life.