Sleep health and occupational balance in university students in Singapore

<h3>Introduction:</h3><p dir="ltr">Adequate sleep is crucial for health and cognitive performance, yet university students often experience inadequate sleep. In Singapore, academic pressures and long work hours exacerbate sleep issues. This study explores sleep health among university students, focusing on cultural, behavioural and environmental factors, and its impact on occupational balance.</p><h3>Method:</h3><p dir="ltr">A mixed-methods study using a convergent parallel design was conducted at a Singapore university. Students from Health and Social Sciences and Engineering faculties participated in an anonymous survey on sleep quality and severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Separate focus groups were conducted to understand students’ sleep experiences.</p><h3>Results:</h3><p dir="ltr">A total of 147 students completed the survey; 36 joined focus groups. Key findings include (1) Sleep Quality and Daytime Functioning – 79% of participants reported difficulties maintaining enthusiasm, and 52.4% experienced daytime sleepiness at least once in the past month, impacting academic performance and social balance. (2) Sleep and Health – poor overall sleep quality was significantly correlated with emotional distress. (3) Sleep and Social Availability – Social commitments often dictated sleep times, affecting overall sleep quality.</p><h3>Conclusion:</h3><p dir="ltr">Addressing sleep challenges can enhance academic performance and overall well-being among university students. Interventions addressing sleep quality should consider cultural and societal influences on occupational balance.</p>