The world is in a global epidemic of sleep loss, so it would be worth allowing people to take a break from work for a short afternoon nap, says Kirsty Kaleva, a sleep doctor at the University Hospital of Helsinki.
Every third Friday in March, the world celebrates World Sleep Day. This year it is held on March 15th.
A tough work schedule, a long travel time to work, an accelerating pace of life - all this leads to a decrease in the amount of sleep in every person's life, scientists are sure.
“We are in the midst of a global epidemic of sleep loss,” Kaleva said.
Sleep loss can seriously damage health, she said. “In fact, our health is highly dependent on the amount of sleep. Sleep also has an impact on productivity, which is already forcing some companies to rethink their attitude to rest. Lack of sleep costs most developed countries 2% of their GDP. And it is extremely important to find time for a short break in case of lack of sleep,”the sleep doctor is convinced.
Sleeping during the day can help improve performance without interfering with your night's sleep. "Many studies show that sleeping for about 20 minutes in the afternoon has a positive effect on mood and concentration," Kaleva notes.
Some employers in Finland have already allowed flexible working hours for employees according to their chronotype - an internal clock that programs bedtime and determines whether you are a morning person or a night owl.
“I generally support sleep in the workplace, even if it just signals some degree of recognition of the importance of sleep in people in leadership positions,” says Kaleva.
Promotional video:
According to her, organizational, social and structural changes are needed. She added that she sympathized with a French law that gives workers the right to disconnect from emails outside of working hours.
Since 2016, France has entered into force the Employment Act, which obliges organizations with more than 50 people to start negotiations to determine the right of workers to ignore work emails. The measures are intended to address the so-called "always online" work culture that has led to a surge in typically unpaid overtime and out-of-office work. Companies are required by law to negotiate agreements with employees about their rights and how they can reduce intrusion into their privacy. If no agreement is reached, the company must publish a charter that clearly defines the requirements and rights of workers outside of working hours.