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Tools from tradition and science for deep and quality sleep | The Jerusalem Post

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The Rising Epidemic of Sleep Deprivation in Israel: Why We’re Losing a Vital Habit

In a recent feature for The Jerusalem Post (July 12, 2024), experts, patients, and sleep researchers converge on a sobering truth: the modern Israeli lifestyle is eroding one of our most basic health habits—sleep. Titled “Sleep Helps Us Be Healthy, But We Are Losing That Habit,” the article paints a detailed portrait of how technology, work culture, and changing social norms are pushing Israelis toward chronic sleep loss, and why the consequences are far‑reaching.


The Science of Sleep: A Quick Primer

The article opens by summarizing the foundational science behind sleep. The National Sleep Foundation, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), and Israel’s own Ministry of Health agree that adults need 7‑9 hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly. Sleep is not a passive state; it is a dynamic, restorative process that:

  • Recharges the brain, consolidating memories and facilitating learning.
  • Regulates hormones that control appetite (ghrelin and leptin) and metabolism.
  • Supports the immune system, with research linking poor sleep to higher susceptibility to infections.
  • Reduces the risk of chronic conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, depression, and cardiovascular disease.

One striking statistic from the article notes that adults who consistently sleep <6 hours per night exhibit a 45 % higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to those who sleep 7–8 hours.


The Modern Threat: Digital, Demanding, and Disrupted

The article details how Israel’s high-tech economy, which has earned it the nickname “Startup Nation,” is a double‑edged sword for sleep health.

  1. Digital Overload
    The nation’s smartphone penetration stands at 96 %, and a 2023 Tel Aviv university survey found that 83 % of respondents check their phones within 30 minutes of waking, and 72 % use them before bed. Blue‑light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep and causing a “sleep debt” that can accumulate over weeks.

  2. 24‑Hour Economy and Shift Work
    The article highlights the rise in night‑shift workers—particularly in healthcare, security, and manufacturing. Israel’s Ministry of Labor reports a 17 % increase in shift work since 2015. Shift workers are prone to circadian rhythm misalignment, which not only shortens sleep but also increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and impaired cognitive performance.

  3. Urban Lifestyle and Noise Pollution
    Cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have some of the highest noise levels in the Middle East. Chronic exposure to ambient noise disrupts sleep cycles, particularly REM sleep, which is critical for emotional regulation and memory consolidation.

  4. Mental Health Pressures
    Israel’s unique geopolitical climate contributes to a high baseline of stress and anxiety. The article cites a 2024 study by the Hebrew University that found a 60 % prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder among young adults, with many reporting sleep disturbances as a symptom.


Real‑World Consequences

Beyond statistics, the article brings the issue to life with personal anecdotes. One profile tells the story of a 29‑year‑old software developer, “Noa,” who worked extended hours to meet a product launch deadline. She fell into a “sleep debt” of over 30 hours in a month, eventually experiencing severe headaches, irritability, and an unexplained weight gain of 12 kg. After consulting a sleep specialist, she was prescribed a structured bedtime routine and advised to limit screen time at least two hours before bed.

Another case involved a retired military officer who had been a night‑shift nurse for 15 years. Post‑retirement, he noticed a sharp increase in blood pressure readings and was diagnosed with pre‑hypertension. After starting a sleep hygiene program, his blood pressure returned to normal after six months.

The article also links sleep deprivation to impaired judgment and safety risks. A 2023 Israeli transportation study found that drivers who slept <6 hours had a 35 % higher incidence of road accidents, a finding echoed in the broader literature on sleep‑related driving incidents.


National and Institutional Responses

Israel’s health authorities are taking note. The Ministry of Health’s 2024 Sleep Action Plan includes:

  • Public Awareness Campaigns
    Using social media and public service announcements to educate on sleep hygiene and the dangers of chronic sleep loss.

  • Workplace Initiatives
    Companies are encouraged to adopt “sleep‑friendly” policies—flexible shift schedules, mandatory rest breaks for night‑shift workers, and onsite nap rooms.

  • School and University Programs
    The Ministry of Education is piloting curriculum modules on sleep science for secondary students, emphasizing that adequate sleep is foundational for academic success.

  • Healthcare System Changes
    The Israeli Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are integrating sleep assessments into routine health check‑ups. In 2024, over 60 % of HMO clinics offered basic sleep counseling, and a growing number refer patients to sleep specialists.


Expert Recommendations

Sleep experts interviewed in the article converge on a set of practical strategies that can be adopted at an individual and societal level:

  1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
    Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends—to strengthen circadian rhythms.

  2. Create a Sleep‑Friendly Environment
    Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Consider blackout curtains, white‑noise machines, or earplugs if noise is unavoidable.

  3. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
    Avoid stimulants 4–6 hours before bedtime; alcohol should be limited to no more than one drink in the evening.

  4. Mindful Screen Time
    Use the “night mode” on devices or blue‑light‑blocking glasses, and set a “digital curfew” at least 90 minutes before bed.

  5. Relaxation Techniques
    Meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or a warm bath can signal the body that it’s time to wind down.

  6. Professional Help for Chronic Issues
    Persistent insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or sleep apnea warrants evaluation by a sleep specialist. The article highlights that up to 15 % of Israeli adults may have undiagnosed sleep apnea, a condition that can dramatically increase cardiovascular risk.


Looking Forward: A Call to Action

The article concludes on a hopeful note, emphasizing that while the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable. “Sleep is not a luxury; it is a cornerstone of health,” says Dr. Yael Tzipori, a leading Israeli sleep researcher. “We have the knowledge, technology, and policy tools to reverse the trend. It’s a collective responsibility—from government to employers, schools, and individuals.”

In a society that prides itself on innovation and resilience, the article reminds us that the first step to building healthier, more productive communities is to prioritize the nights that allow us to do our best during the day.


The Jerusalem Post’s feature underscores the urgent need to treat sleep not as a personal inconvenience but as a public health priority. As Israeli society continues to evolve, the hope is that sleep will regain its place as a fundamental pillar of health and wellbeing.


Read the Full The Jerusalem Post Blogs Article at:
[ https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/sleep/article-865807 ]