A good night’s sleep is often touted as the cure for all sorts of ailments, from headaches to bad moods. Now, new research suggests it might also be the best remedy for loneliness. According to the National Sleep Foundation in Washington, DC, quality sleep helps people feel more connected to others. In other words, those who snooze well don’t just lose; they gain friends! The study found that better sleep health is linked to lower levels of emotional, social, and total loneliness, across adults of all ages.
In a twist that sounds like it came straight out of a dystopian sci-fi novel, the US Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health crisis in 2023. The risks associated with feeling lonely were compared to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. (Silver lining: if you’re lonely, at least you’re not trying to bum smokes off anyone!)
So, next time you find yourself feeling isolated, consider skipping that extra episode of your favorite show and hitting the hay instead. Not only will you wake up refreshed, but you might also find yourself with a renewed sense of connection to the world around you. Sweet dreams and even sweeter social interactions await!