Sleepless in Switzerland: The booming industry for better sleep

Sleepless in Switzerland: The booming industry for better sleep

Insomnia is a widespread problem: in Switzerland, over a third of people have difficulty falling asleep or suffer from sleep disorders. This issue not only has an impact on everyday life, but also on the economy. Philippe Zawieja, a high-profile psychosociologist and researcher, speaks of a “sleep economy” that has become established worldwide. This “economy” includes a variety of products and services aimed at improving sleep quality. Loud SRF The global market for sleep products now has a volume of up to 90 billion euros.

Common products include not only high-quality mattresses, pillows and blankets, but also special light therapies, herbal teas and sleeping pills. Urban living conditions, characterized by street lighting and constant activity in big cities, further exacerbate the sleep problem. Social moments and irregular working hours also disrupt sleep patterns. Recent technologies, particularly the use of smartphones, contribute significantly to insomnia by preventing people from getting timely rest.

Negative effects on health and work

Sleep disorders not only affect the quality of life, but also the performance of those affected. According to sleepless.org Various types of sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome, cause significant problems in the work context. They lead to reduced concentration, impaired cognitive performance and represent an increased risk of accidents, particularly in safety-critical professions.

Fatigue is becoming a massive global problem, costing an estimated 1.5 to 3 percent of global GDP. In addition, health risks such as a weakened immune system or an increased risk of chronic diseases are increased by inadequate sleep. The risk of errors caused by tired employees is particularly high in the healthcare sector.

Prevention and support

Both employers and employees are required to counteract the negative consequences of sleep disorders. Regular breaks, appropriate working hours and a safe work environment can reduce the risk of accidents. Promoting good sleep hygiene, such as regular bedtimes and a quiet sleep environment, is also recommended. Employers can help by offering more flexible working hours and providing sleep health training.

Collaboration between employers and employees is crucial to improve sleep quality and minimize negative impacts on work. In the long term, improving sleep can not only improve quality of life, but also increase productivity and efficiency in the world of work. For people who suffer from persistent sleep problems, it is advisable to seek professional help and find suitable solutions.