Stuck indoors and losing sleep

PETALING JAYA: Sleep problems are on the rise in the country as prolonged periods staying indoors and increased gadget use disrupt sleep patterns, say health experts. What is more worrying is that young children are also not spared from this health condition.

Assoc Prof Dr Rusdi Abd Rashid, who is Sleep Disorder Society Malaysia (SDSM) chairman, said sleep problems have become a huge health issue for many Malaysians, including children.

“Sleep disorders have affected people of all ages, including adolescents who are in their early secondary school years.

“I believe this age group is the most affected, and they have been staying at home for many months.

“One problem is that their sleep is affected due to changes in their circadian rhythm,” he said, referring to the body’s internal clock.

He pointed out that a major contributing factor to the sleep problems was the excessive use of electronic gadgets and online platforms.

“These children have told us their parents are using the computer to work from home, so they have to share the computer with other siblings for their lessons.

“Online learning has become a burden in such a situation, and they find it difficult to cope with online lessons for long hours,” he said.

He added that the use of such gadgets right before sleeping at night could stimulate the mind and interfere with one’s sleep cycle.

“The light from a cellphone or laptop screen prevents the release of melatonin, which is the hormone responsible for inducing sleep.

“Sleep deprivation can lead to disrupted body homeostasis,” he said, referring to the self-regulating process by which a body maintains a stable condition.

He also warned that sleep deprivation could also contribute to a host of other health problems, such as mental illness.

SDSM treasurer Dr Raymond Tan also agreed that there were more patients coming in with sleep problems.

He added that with people spending most of their time in their homes, many people are experiencing disrupted sleep patterns.

“They don’t get enough exercise or sunlight, and they may have developed more sedentary habits like watching TV.

“Exercise is very important because it helps to regulate our sleep patterns and promote better sleep.

“People are also not getting enough exposure to sunlight, which is really important to regulate our circadian rhythm.

“People should try as much as possible to exercise, at least around their house compound, and to get exposed to more sunlight,” he said.

Another problem, he added, was “Zoom fatigue”, referring to the tiredness felt from being on video conferences for too long.

“Even though you are meeting somebody online, the non-verbal body gestures and facial cues are still important. When there aren’t any, it is more tiring when you talk to people online,” he said.

Dr Tan added that anxiety and stress could also be affecting Malaysians’ sleep, adding that there is an uptick of people suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts.

Those suffering from problems can reach out to Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or WhatsApp [phone]); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (WhatsApp [phone]); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929). See www.befrienders.org.my for full list of numbers and operating hours.