How Did You Sleep? Why Rest Matters for Your Health and Your Work

Each March, Sleep Awareness Week is a timely reminder of how sleep impacts overall wellbeing. And if you’re feeling extra groggy after daylight savings time, you’re not alone. Sleep researchers have found that losing just an hour of sleep can impact cognitive function, mood, and even workplace productivity. For organizations, fostering a culture that supports employee sleep health can contribute to better focus, decision-making, and workplace safety. And providing resources that help employees prioritize sleep as part of their overall wellbeing strategy can make a meaningful difference in how they feel and perform. 

The connection between sleep and workplace wellbeing 

We all know the feeling of dragging ourselves through a workday after a bad night’s sleep. But beyond the immediate exhaustion, poor sleep has long-term effects that extend beyond just feeling tired. It can contribute to a host of health issues, from cognitive decline to chronic disease, all of which impact an employee’s ability to perform effectively at work. 

According to LifeSpeak expert Dr. Colleen Carney, Director of the Sleep and Depression Laboratory, sleep deprivation is linked to a wide range of negative health outcomes.

Not getting enough sleep is associated with: 

• Weight gain 

• Obesity 

• Diabetes 

• Cardiovascular disease 

• Stroke 

• Mental health problems 

• Cognitive decline

From an organizational perspective, sleep deprivation is more than just an individual concern—it affects workplace efficiency. Research shows that sleep-deprived employees cost U.S. companies an estimated $411 billion annually in lost productivity. Employers who integrate sleep health into their wellbeing programs may see improvements in employee satisfaction, engagement, and overall performance. 

Why employees are struggling to sleep 

Despite the known benefits of quality rest, many employees struggle to maintain a consistent sleep routine. The demands of work, family responsibilities, and digital distractions often make it difficult to unwind at night. And the numbers back it up: recent research shows that one in three adults doesn’t get enough sleep. 

LifeSpeak expert Dr. Sophie Bostock, a sleep evangelist and researcher, highlights a common challenge: Many employees don’t recognize when their sleep struggles have become a real issue. 

“Everyone has the occasional poor night’s sleep. If you’ve had a few bad nights, stick to your routine, and your body will likely correct itself. But if a sleep problem persists for a few weeks or more and starts impacting your work, it’s time to seek support.” 

HR teams can play a key role in creating an environment that helps employees make informed decisions about their sleep health. Offering resources and promoting awareness about sleep hygiene can empower employees to find routines that work best for them, ultimately improving their energy and focus at work. 

The link between stress, sleep, and productivity 

Work-related stress is one of the biggest disruptors of sleep. Tight deadlines, long hours, and digital connectivity can make it harder to unwind at night. 

Poor sleep, in turn, can make stress feel worse. It can affect mood, concentration, and resilience. According to Dr. Bostock, addressing sleep issues can have a positive impact on workplace mental health: 

“If your insomnia is impacting your work performance, not telling your manager might actually make the problem worse. Increased stress levels can fuel a cycle of sleeplessness, which can be difficult to break.” 

How organizations can support better sleep 

Organizations can take steps to help employees make informed decisions about their sleep health in a way that respects individual autonomy and workplace dynamics. 

Normalize conversations about sleep

Many employees hesitate to admit they’re struggling with sleep. Encouraging open dialogue through wellness initiatives, internal newsletters, or manager training can help reduce stigma and create a culture where employees feel supported. 

Provide flexibility and support

• Consider flexible scheduling options to help employees manage their energy levels throughout the day. 

• Encourage reasonable work hours to support a balance between productivity and rest. 

• Offer a generous PTO policy that allows employees to take time off when they need rest without added stress. 

• Set clear expectations around after-hours communication to help employees disconnect from work when they need to. 

Offer resources that support better sleep

• Provide access to a library of expert-led, evidence-based sleep resources, helping employees make informed choices about their sleep health. 

• Host wellness workshops featuring experts on sleep strategies. 

• Share content on evidence-based sleep habits, such as how to create a consistent nighttime routine and manage light exposure before bed. 

Building a well-rested workforce 

When employees get quality sleep, they focus better, collaborate more effectively, and make fewer mistakes. Organizations that include sleep in their wellbeing initiatives can help create an environment where employees feel supported and empowered to take care of their health. 

Organizations have an opportunity to shape workplace culture by recognizing that good sleep is a key component of overall wellbeing. Providing education, flexibility, and access to expert-backed resources can have a lasting impact on both employee health and organizational success. 

Looking for expert-led resources to support employee wellbeing?

LifeSpeak’s suite of wellbeing solutions offers a robust library of evidence-based resources on sleep, mental health, and overall wellness. Learn more about how LifeSpeak can help you build happier, healthier and more informed workplaces. Book a demo today. 

Meet LifeSpeak expert Dr. Sophie Bostock, sleep evangelist and researcher: