Sleep Statistics Canada: Understanding How Canadians Sleep in 2025

RESEARCH SNAPSHOT: Nearly half of all Canadians (48%) report trouble sleeping, while insomnia prevalence has increased by 42% since 2007.

Are you tossing and turning at night? You're not alone. Sleep quality is becoming a growing concern for many Canadians, with recent statistics showing alarming trends in sleep deprivation and disorders. As the pace of modern life accelerates, understanding how we sleep—and why we often don't sleep well—has never been more important.

At Fawcett Mattress, we believe that quality sleep is the foundation of good health and wellbeing. That's why we're diving deep into the latest sleep statistics in Canada to help you understand common sleep patterns, challenges, and how the right sleep environment can make all the difference. Whether you're one of the 48% of Canadians reporting trouble sleeping or simply looking to improve your nightly rest, this comprehensive guide will provide the insights you need.

Key Sleep Statistics Across Canada

Recent data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) reveals some eye-opening figures about our national sleep habits:

Sleep Duration

STAT BOX: Sleep Duration in Canada

• 77% of Canadian adults (aged 18-64) meet the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep
• Older adults (65+) average 8.1 hours of sleep, with 55% meeting their recommended 7-8 hour target
• Children aged 5-11 show the highest sleep guideline adherence at 86.2%
• Adolescents (12-17) have lower adherence rates at 62%, a concerning trend affecting development

Sleep Quality Concerns

KEY FINDING: Women report significantly higher rates of sleep problems than men, with 23.1% experiencing nighttime insomnia symptoms compared to 14.8% of men.

• Approximately 48% of Canadian adults report having trouble sleeping in 2024
• 23.1% of women and 14.8% of men experience nighttime insomnia symptoms
• Insomnia prevalence has increased by 42% since 2007, representing a significant public health concern
• 17.2% of women report unrefreshing sleep versus 13.5% of men

Sleep Disorders

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT: Sleep apnea prevalence increases with age, affecting 3% of the general adult population but rising to 5% among those over 45.

• Insomnia affects approximately 13.4% of Canadians when using clinical criteria
• Sleep apnea affects around 3% of Canadian adults, increasing to 5% among those over 45
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) impacts 5.1% of Canadian adults
• Women are 1.5-2 times more likely to develop chronic insomnia than men

EXPERT INSIGHT: These statistics paint a concerning picture of sleep health in Canada, with significant impacts on both individual wellbeing and public health.

Canadian Sleep Studies and Findings

Canadian researchers have been at the forefront of sleep science, with several important studies shedding light on our national sleep patterns.

The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

SURPRISING FINDING: Older adults often report better subjective sleep quality despite experiencing shorter sleep durations.

This landmark study has revealed that sleep problems increase with age, but interestingly, subjective sleep quality often improves among older adults despite shorter sleep durations. This suggests that sleep quality, rather than quantity alone, plays a crucial role in how we feel upon waking.

The Canadian Sleep and Circadian Network

HEALTH IMPACT: Sleep apnea patients face a 2.5-fold higher diabetes risk and 2.2-fold increased cardiovascular mortality rate.

Their research has found strong connections between sleep disruptions and various health conditions, including a 2.5-fold higher diabetes incidence and 2.2-fold increased cardiovascular mortality in sleep apnea patients compared to healthy sleepers.

StatCan's Sleep Research

SOCIOECONOMIC FACTOR: Adults in the highest income quartile are 30% more likely to meet sleep duration recommendations than those in the lowest income bracket.

Statistics Canada's comprehensive surveys show that household income and education strongly correlate with sleep outcomes. Adults in the highest income quartile were 30% more likely to meet sleep guidelines than those in the lowest income bracket, highlighting social determinants of sleep health.

Indigenous Sleep Health Studies

HEALTH DISPARITY ALERT: Indigenous Canadians face a 1.77-fold higher risk of insomnia compared to non-Indigenous populations.

Research indicates that Indigenous Canadians exhibit a 1.77-fold higher risk of insomnia compared to non-Indigenous populations, linked to systemic inequities and limited healthcare access—an important area for targeted interventions.

Common Sleep Patterns Among Canadians

Sleep patterns vary significantly across different demographic groups in Canada, with several notable trends:

Regional Variations

GEOGRAPHIC COMPARISON:

• Urban children (Toronto): 10.6 hours of sleep
• Rural children (Grey Bruce): 11.2 hours of sleep
• Difference: 36 minutes less sleep for urban children

REGIONAL SLEEP FACTS:

• Urban children aged 3-4 averaged 10.6 nightly sleep hours in Toronto versus 11.2 in rural Grey Bruce
• Adults in Vancouver and Montreal reported 18% higher insomnia rates than Atlantic Canada
• Quebec residents use more sleep medications (11.5%) compared to Ontario (6.7%)

Seasonal Impacts

SEASONAL SLEEP PATTERNS IN CANADA:

In a country with extreme seasonal variations, our sleep patterns adjust accordingly:

• Winter months see longer average sleep durations (8.3 hours) but increased sleep fragmentation
• Summer's extended daylight hours in northern regions disrupt natural melatonin production
• Seasonal Affective Disorder affects approximately 15% of Canadians, further impacting sleep quality

Technology Usage and Sleep

TECH IMPACT ON SLEEP:

The digital age has significantly altered how Canadians sleep:

• 66.4% of Canadians use electronic devices within 30 minutes of bedtime
• Screen time before bed correlates with a 23-minute reduction in REM sleep
• Despite recognizing the impact, 40% still utilize sleep apps or white noise machines

Top Factors That Influence Sleep Quality

Understanding what impacts sleep quality is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve rest. Here are the primary factors affecting Canadians' sleep:

Environmental Factors

SCIENCE-BACKED SLEEP ENVIRONMENT FACTORS:

The sleep environment plays a pivotal role in quality rest:

• Temperature: Research shows the ideal bedroom temperature is between 16-20°C for optimal sleep
• Light exposure: Excessive artificial light at night suppresses melatonin by up to 50%
• Air quality: Canadian bedrooms frequently exceed 1,150 ppm CO₂ overnight, correlating with next-day cognitive impairment
• Noise levels: Urban noise (averaging 55 dB overnight in Toronto) fragments sleep architecture

Sleep Surface and Bedding

At Fawcett Mattress, we understand that your sleep surface is fundamental to quality rest:

SLEEP SURFACE STATISTICS:

• 34% of Canadians have invested in ergonomic mattresses, reporting 55% improvement in sleep quality
• Natural materials like latex provide optimal temperature regulation and pressure relief
• Weighted blankets have shown effectiveness for anxiety-related sleep problems
• Organic cotton and wool bedding enhance moisture-wicking and temperature regulation

Lifestyle Factors

LIFESTYLE IMPACT ON SLEEP QUALITY:

Daily habits significantly impact sleep quality:

• Stress levels: 78% of Canadians linked poor sleep quality to heightened anxiety
• Physical activity: Meeting physical activity guidelines correlates with 27% better sleep quality
• Diet: Caffeine consumption after 2 pm reduces sleep efficiency by up to 15%
• Work schedules: Shift workers report 7-fold higher workplace accident risks due to fatigue

How Sleep Impacts Mental Health

The relationship between sleep and mental health is bidirectional and profound:

Depression and Anxiety

MENTAL HEALTH CONNECTION:

• 36.3% of sleep-deprived adults experience chronic depression, compared to 8.7% meeting sleep duration recommendations
• Individuals with insomnia are 3.1 times more likely to report poor mental health than unaffected peers
• Anxiety disorders are strongly linked to difficulties falling asleep

CRITICAL INSIGHT: Sleep-deprived adults are over 4 times more likely to experience chronic depression compared to those meeting sleep guidelines.

Trauma and Sleep Disorders

TRAUMA-SLEEP RELATIONSHIP:

• Among Canadians exposed to traumatic events, 64% developed difficulties falling asleep
• 23% of those with trauma-related sleep problems progress to chronic insomnia

Cognitive Function

COGNITIVE IMPACT:

• Insufficient sleep affects cognitive processing, with adults sleeping fewer than 6 hours showing 48% slower problem-solving speeds
• Memory consolidation, essential for learning, primarily occurs during deep sleep phases

Children's Mental Health

PEDIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH FINDING:

• Poor sleep quality in children correlates strongly with hyperactivity, anxiety, and depressive symptoms
• Adolescents with insufficient sleep show 40% higher rates of daytime sleepiness, impairing academic performance

Relationship Between Sleep and Physical Activity Levels

The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recognize the important interplay between sleep and physical activity:

Guidelines and Reality

24-HOUR MOVEMENT GUIDELINES: RECOMMENDATIONS VS. REALITY

• Adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity weekly alongside 7-9 hours of sleep
• Only 7.1% of Canadian adults meet all three pillars of the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (physical activity, sedentary limits, and sleep)
• 49% of adults meet physical activity recommendations, while 77% achieve recommended sleep durations

Bidirectional Benefits

WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS:

• Higher sleep efficiency and quality predict next-day physical activity increases
• Moderate physical activity improves how quickly people fall asleep and deep sleep duration
• Allocating 30 additional minutes to physical activity correlates with improved sleep quality and lower BMI

Activity, Sleep and Health Outcomes

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MEETING MOVEMENT GUIDELINES:

• Adults meeting all movement guidelines show 12% lower triglycerides and 15% reduced insulin resistance
• High sleep quality correlates with 27% lower odds of depressive symptoms, independent of duration
• In older adults, 30 minutes of daily physical activity links to 18% lower anxiety risk

RESEARCHER TAKEAWAY: The data suggests a powerful synergy between physical activity and sleep quality, with each positively reinforcing the other.

Proven Strategies to Achieve Healthy Sleep Habits

Based on Canadian research, these evidence-based strategies can help improve your sleep quality:

Environmental Optimization

SLEEP ENVIRONMENT CHECKLIST:

Create a sleep sanctuary by focusing on:

• Temperature control: Maintain bedroom temperatures between 16-18°C in winter using breathable bedding materials
• Light management: Use blackout curtains, especially in northern regions with extended summer daylight
• Air quality: Ensure proper ventilation with open windows (even 2-3cm in winter) or air purifiers
• Sound management: Consider white noise machines to mask environmental disturbances

Sleep Surface Enhancement

Your mattress and bedding make a significant difference:

• Natural materials: Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like organic cotton and wool, which we proudly feature in our Fawcett mattresses and bedding collections
• Mattress support: Select a mattress that properly supports your body's natural alignment, like our natural latex mattresses handcrafted in Victoria, BC
• Pressure relief: Look for materials that distribute pressure evenly, reducing tossing and turning

Lifestyle Adjustments

EVIDENCE-BASED SLEEP HABIT IMPROVEMENTS:

Modify daily habits to support better sleep:

• Light exposure timing: Get natural daylight between 11 AM-1 PM to optimize circadian rhythms
• Evening routine: Establish a consistent wind-down period 60-90 minutes before bed
• Physical activity: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity daily, preferably not within 2 hours of bedtime
• Screen management: Use blue-light filtering and reduce screen time 2 hours before sleep

Sleep Trends in Canadian Communities

Sleep patterns and interventions vary across different Canadian demographics:

Urban vs. Rural Sleep

URBAN-RURAL SLEEP COMPARISON:

• Urban residents experience more light pollution and noise disruptions
• Rural Canadians report longer average sleep durations but sometimes poorer sleep quality
• Quebec's "Silent Nights" initiative, enforcing nighttime construction bans, reduced sleep complaints by 22% in Montréal-Nord

Age-Specific Trends

SLEEP PATTERN BY AGE GROUP:

• Children (3-4) showed highest sleep guideline adherence at 87.5%
• Adolescents face increasing sleep challenges with only 62% meeting recommendations
• Middle-aged adults (35-64) experience peak insomnia prevalence at 24%
• Older adults report better subjective sleep quality despite more fragmented sleep

Socioeconomic Factors

SOCIOECONOMIC SLEEP DISPARITIES:

• Lower income Canadians face higher rates of sleep disorders
• Educational attainment correlates with better sleep hygiene practices
• Indigenous populations face unique sleep health challenges requiring culturally appropriate solutions

How to Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment

Creating the optimal sleep environment is essential for quality rest. Here's how to transform your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary:

Temperature Regulation

OPTIMAL TEMPERATURE STRATEGIES:

• Use layered bedding that can be adjusted through the night
• Consider breathable, natural fibers like those in our Australian wool bedding for optimal temperature control
• In summer, ceiling fans create air movement without chilling

Light Management

LIGHT CONTROL TECHNIQUES:

• Install blackout curtains, especially important during Canadian summers
• Remove or cover electronics that emit light
• Consider low-wattage, warm-toned lighting for evening use

Air Quality Optimization

AIR QUALITY RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Open windows regularly to maintain fresh air circulation
• Consider air purifiers with HEPA filters in urban areas
• Maintain optimal humidity between 30-50% with humidifiers in winter

Sound Control

NOISE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS:

• Address noise issues with acoustic treatments or white noise machines
• Consider the placement of your bedroom away from household activity centers
• Use earplugs if necessary for unavoidable noise

Bedroom Essentials

SLEEP SURFACE ESSENTIALS:

The foundation of good sleep starts with quality sleep products:

• Mattress selection: Choose a mattress that supports proper spinal alignment and pressure relief, like our Sombrio Natural Latex Mattress
• Pillow support: Select pillows that maintain proper neck alignment for your sleep position
• Natural bedding: Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking materials like organic cotton and wool

At Fawcett Mattress, we handcraft our mattresses and toppers right here in Victoria, BC, using premium natural materials designed to optimize your sleep experience.

FAQs

What percentage of Canadians get enough sleep?

THE DATA: 77% of Canadian adults meet sleep duration recommendations, but rates vary significantly by age group.

According to recent statistics, approximately 77% of Canadian adults aged 18 to 64 meet the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep. However, this varies significantly by age group, with 86.2% of children aged 5-11 meeting their sleep recommendations, while only 62% of adolescents achieve their recommended sleep duration. It's important to note that even among those getting enough sleep, many report poor sleep quality, with 48% of Canadians reporting trouble sleeping.

The Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) conducted by Statistics Canada reveals interesting regional variations as well. Residents of certain health regions report higher rates of adequate sleep duration, suggesting that environmental and cultural factors may play a role in sleep behaviours across the country.

What is the prevalence of sleep disorders in Canada?

SLEEP DISORDER STATISTICS:

• Clinical insomnia: 13.4% of Canadians, up 42% since 2007
• Sleep apnea: 3% of adults (5% in those over 45)
• Restless Legs Syndrome: 5.1% of Canadian adults
• Gender disparity: Women 1.5-2x more likely to have insomnia; men represent 75% of sleep apnea cases

Sleep disorders affect a substantial portion of the Canadian population. Clinical insomnia affects approximately 13.4% of Canadians, with rates rising by 42% since 2007. Sleep apnea affects around 3% of adults, increasing to 5% among those over 45, though many cases remain undiagnosed. Restless Legs Syndrome impacts 5.1% of Canadian adults. Women experience higher rates of insomnia (1.5-2 times more likely than men), while men constitute 75% of diagnosed sleep apnea cases.

The medical research community, particularly in the field of sleep medicine, has identified a U-shaped association between sleep duration and adverse health outcomes. Both short sleep duration (less than 7 hours) and long sleep duration (more than 9 hours) are associated with increased mortality, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental and cognitive disorders. This highlights the importance of achieving the right balance in sleep times.

How does insufficient sleep affect physical and mental health?

HEALTH IMPACT OF POOR SLEEP:

Insufficient sleep has far-reaching consequences for both physical and mental wellbeing. The Canadian Health Measures Survey has documented multiple adverse health outcomes linked to poor sleep quality and inadequate sleep duration:

• Cardiovascular health: Adults with chronic sleep deprivation show 37% higher rates of hypertension and 48% increased risk of coronary heart disease, highlighting the link between sleep and cardiovascular disease.
• Metabolic function: Poor sleep disrupts glucose metabolism, with respondents reporting fewer than 6 hours per night showing a 23% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those getting 7-8 hours.
• Immune system: Sleep-deprived individuals experience more frequent infections, with research indicating a 3-fold increase in common cold susceptibility.
• Mental health impacts: Previous studies suggest that sleep disturbances often precede the onset of various mental and cognitive disorders. Adults with chronic insomnia disorder show a 4-fold increased risk of developing depression within one year.
• Cognitive performance: Difficulty staying awake during daytime hours affects 23% of those with poor sleep quality, leading to workplace safety concerns and reduced productivity. Public health experts note that cognitive impairment from sleep loss resembles alcohol intoxication at certain levels.

For young adults and those in occupational health-sensitive positions, maintaining good sleep hygiene is particularly critical, as the Public Health Agency of Canada has identified sleep deprivation as a significant factor in workplace accidents.

Is it better to sleep 8 hours or 7:30?

EXPERT PERSPECTIVE: Quality and consistency often matter more than exact duration, with individual needs varying based on genetics and lifestyle factors.

The ideal sleep duration varies by individual. While the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recommend 7-9 hours for adults aged 18 to 64, the quality of sleep often matters more than the exact duration. Research suggests that consistent sleep patterns are more beneficial than focusing on a specific number of hours. Some individuals naturally need more or less sleep based on genetics, activity levels, and overall health. The key is to find your personal optimal duration where you wake feeling refreshed and maintain consistent sleep-wake cycles.

Sleep indicators tracked in clinical epidemiology studies show that seven to nine hours represents the sweet spot for most adults, but individual variations are normal. The focus should be on achieving high sleep quality rather than rigidly adhering to a specific number. Many Canadians with good quality sleep report feeling rested with slightly less than eight hours, while others require more for optimal functioning.

How does the right mattress impact sleep quality?

5 WAYS THE RIGHT MATTRESS IMPROVES SLEEP:

The right mattress plays a crucial role in sleep quality by:

• Supporting proper spinal alignment to prevent back and neck pain
• Distributing body weight evenly to reduce pressure points
• Regulating temperature for comfortable sleep throughout the night
• Reducing motion transfer for couples
• Providing durability for consistent support over time

Our natural latex mattresses at Fawcett are designed to address these needs with breathable, supportive materials that promote restorative sleep. Unlike memory foam that can trap heat, our natural latex provides excellent temperature regulation along with the perfect balance of support and comfort.

How do sedentary behaviour and electronic device use affect sleep?

The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines acknowledge the significant impact of sedentary behaviour on sleep health. Research from the Lady Davis Institute indicates that:

• Prolonged sitting (more than 8 hours daily) correlates with a 52% increase in difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
• Electronic devices emit blue light that suppresses melatonin production, with studies showing a 55% reduction when screens are used in the hour before bedtime.
• Canadians of lower socioeconomic status report 1.4 times higher screen time before bed, potentially contributing to sleep health disparities.

The relationship works both ways—poor sleep quality often leads to increased sedentary time the following day, creating a negative cycle that affects overall health. Experts recommend balancing active time with appropriate sleep times and limiting screen exposure, especially in the evening hours, as part of a healthy lifestyle approach.

What sleep recommendations exist for different age groups in Canada?

Sleep requirements vary significantly across the lifespan, with the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines providing detailed recommendations by age:

• Infants (0-1 year): 14-17 hours (0-3 months); 12-16 hours (4-11 months)
• Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours including naps
• Preschoolers (3-4 years): 10-13 hours including naps
• Children (5-13 years): 9-11 hours
• Adolescents (14-17 years): 8-10 hours
• Adults aged 18 to 64: 7-9 hours
• Adults aged 65 and older: 7-8 hours

The Public Health Agency emphasizes that these guidelines should be considered within the context of a 24-hour framework that includes physical activity and limited sedentary behaviour. Across all age groups, consistent bed and wake times support better sleep quality and overall health outcomes.

Conclusion

Sleep is a fundamental pillar of health that affects everything from cognitive function to emotional wellbeing and physical health. The statistics show that while many Canadians achieve adequate sleep duration, quality remains a significant concern with nearly half of us experiencing sleep troubles.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Nearly half (48%) of Canadian adults report sleep difficulties
• Sleep disorders are increasing, with insomnia rates rising 42% since 2007
• Environmental factors like temperature (16-20°C optimal) and light exposure significantly impact sleep quality
• Only 7.1% of Canadians meet all three components of the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines

Creating an optimal sleep environment with appropriate temperature, light, sound, and air quality management is essential. Equally important is investing in a quality sleep surface that provides proper support and comfort throughout the night.

At Fawcett Mattress, we're committed to helping Canadians achieve better sleep through our handcrafted mattresses and natural bedding products. Made right here in Canada on Vancouver Island, our products combine the finest natural materials with expert craftsmanship to deliver personalized sleep solutions for your best rest.

Whether you're one of the many Canadians struggling with sleep or simply looking to improve your sleep quality, we invite you to explore our collections or contact us to speak with a mattress expert. Your journey to better sleep starts with the right foundation.

Citations:
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