Germany reports widespread sleep deprivation among adults and students

Recent surveys in Germany indicate widespread sleep deprivation across various demographics. An AOK-Bundesverband study conducted by forsa reveals that only approximately 30 percent of respondents achieve the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Roughly 69 percent of the population sleeps less than seven hours, with the 45 to 59 age group being the most affected, as 77 percent in this bracket fall below the recommended duration.

Common causes for poor sleep include stress and psychological burdens (63 percent), physical ailments (38 percent), and room temperature issues (36 percent). Digital media consumption before bed is also a factor, cited by 27 percent of the general population and 45 percent of those aged 18 to 29. Overall, 58 percent of Germans report experiencing sleep difficulties.

Additionally, the DAK Prevention Radar 2026 highlights a growing issue among students. Approximately 46 percent of children and adolescents in grades 5 to 10 report sleep problems at least once a week, an increase from 36 percent in 2019/20. Furthermore, 69 percent of these students report feeling exhausted at least once a week. Experts suggest intensive media use late into the evening may contribute to these trends.