Are you a college student, or do you have a student in the family? Over the past year, children, teens, and adults have been learning online. Research shows that online learning has affected sleep for many students, leading to shorter sleep duration and poorer sleep quality.
Sleeping During the Semester
COVID-19 has had a major impact on college students’ sleep patterns. A study from Simon Fraser University followed 80 students learning remotely and compared them with over 450 students who took the same class before the pandemic. Researchers found that remote learning led students to go to bed about 30 minutes later and experience worse sleep quality overall.
Why Are Online Students Sleeping Less?
One reason is that online schedules can disrupt the circadian rhythm—your body’s 24-hour internal clock that tells you when to sleep and wake. Normally, this rhythm is regulated by natural sunlight, making you alert in the morning and sleepy in the evening. But students learning online spend more time indoors and in front of screens. The blue light from devices mimics sunlight, delaying sleep and making it harder to fall asleep at night.
Delaying Sleep
The study also found that delayed sleep worsens sleep quality. Students who go to bed later often wake up later, which further disrupts their circadian rhythm and reduces overall restfulness during the day.
How to Sleep Better
There are several ways to improve sleep, especially for online students. One key strategy is to get exposure to natural sunlight in the morning. Even a short walk can help reset your circadian rhythm, improve energy levels, and promote better sleep quality at night.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Consistency is essential. Set a regular sleep schedule that maximizes time in natural light. For example, wake up around sunrise and spend time outside in the morning light. Avoid excessive artificial light in the evening. Over time, this helps you feel sleepy after sunset and improves your sleep duration and quality.
Are you staying up late stressing over homework? Prioritizing sleep and rising earlier can improve your overall well-being, productivity, and academic success.
Sound Sleep Medical
Having trouble sleeping? Try these tips, then visit Sound Sleep Medical. Our Sleep Specialists can help identify the root of your sleeplessness. You may need to improve sleep hygiene, adjust your bedroom temperature, or find the right pillow.
You might also have an underlying sleep disorder or other concerns preventing restful sleep. If you’re ready to sleep deeply through the night, visit us today. We’ll help you understand what’s keeping you awake and provide the tools to achieve consistent, restorative sleep every night.
