The Silent Epidemic: Why Kenyans Are Losing Sleep.
Like the age-old belief that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, the prescription of eight hours of nightly sleep remains a cornerstone of health advice. Yet, the demands of modern life appear indifferent to these recommendations. For many, sleep has become a luxury rather than a necessity.
In Kenya, economic realities add complexity to this challenge. High living costs compel many individuals to take up side hustles or freelance work, often sacrificing sleep in the process. A Swahili proverb, “Mambo ni mengi, masaa ni machache” (“There’s too much to do and too little time”), encapsulates this sleep-deprived generation’s ethos.
Debates Around Sleep
For decades, debates about sleep have focused on questions like how much is enough, who needs more, and whether men truly require an hour less sleep than women. However, as life grows increasingly fast-paced, the conversation has shifted to whether sleep is even a priority anymore.
Personal Stories of Losing Sleep
Simon Ngotho, a 34-year-old real estate administrator, exemplifies this struggle. Despite an official workday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., he regularly takes on freelance projects late into the night. Simon remarked humorously that he might only get proper sleep on Christmas Day.
For weeks, he has averaged less than three hours of sleep nightly, often spending nights at the office and grabbing a change of clothes from his car to start another day.
Simon’s body sometimes forces him to shut down, but he continues to push through, hoping the festive season will provide some relief.
Annabel Onyango’s experience highlights another aspect of sleep deprivation. Working remotely for a Canadian organisation, she begins her day at 5 p.m. Kenyan time to align with her employer’s schedule. Daytime responsibilities, including deadlines and household chores, leave her with no more than four hours of sleep most days.
Meanwhile, Mercy Njeri admits that her sleepless nights are often caused by social media distractions like TikTok challenges and doom-scrolling, leaving her with just three hours of rest before starting her day.
The Broader Picture
These stories reflect a larger reality. Sleep deprivation has become a shared experience for many Kenyans. Irene Moraa, a psychology student, suggests that society’s glorification of hustle culture perpetuates the notion that sleep is for the lazy. This mindset, she believes, undermines the value of adequate rest.
Expert Insights on Sleep
Dr. Peter Muthinji, a neurophysiologist and somnologist, stresses that at least six hours of sleep is essential for mental and physical restoration.
He explains that sleep allows the brain to regulate essential functions, including memory consolidation and toxin clearance. Insufficient sleep disrupts these processes, leading to long-term health risks such as heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
Dr. Muthinji highlights that our internal body clock, or circadian rhythm, regulates sleep-wake cycles. Disruptions, such as working night shifts or jet lag, can significantly impact sleep quality and overall well-being.
The Festive Season and Sleep
At Nairobi’s Railways bus station, the hustle and bustle of Christmas Eve serves as a backdrop for another sleep-related challenge. Bus drivers preparing for overnight journeys face immense pressure to stay alert despite possible sleep deprivation.
According to a 2022 WHO study, sleep deprivation is a major contributor to road accidents. Albert Karakacha, chairperson of the Matatu Owners Association, advises having two drivers per vehicle to ensure safety. Passengers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any signs of driver fatigue.
The Cost of Sleep Deprivation
Mwende Kimeli, a sleep health practitioner, underscores that humans cannot adapt to chronic sleep deprivation without consequences. Insufficient sleep affects mood, cognitive performance, and overall health. Sleep is a critical time for the body and brain to recover, and missing out on this essential process leads to noticeable declines in functioning.
Kimeli points out that during sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and clears toxins, while the body repairs tissues and strengthens the immune system.
Chronic lack of sleep disrupts these functions, increasing the risk of serious health conditions.
She notes that many people underestimate how sleep deprivation impacts their performance, with studies showing slowed reaction times and impaired decision-making among those who sleep less than six hours per night.
Solutions for Better Sleep
While sleep cannot be directly “trained,” identifying barriers to healthy rest is key. Mwende Kimeli recalls working with a client who struggled with erratic sleep schedules and excessive screen time. By addressing these issues, they developed a healthier sleep routine.
Dr. Muthinji emphasises the importance of consistent, quality sleep rather than relying on single days to compensate for lost rest. While a day of extended sleep may reduce immediate fatigue, it cannot reverse the cumulative effects of chronic deprivation. He advocates for understanding and addressing the root causes of sleep issues, tailoring solutions to individual needs.
Understanding Sleep Stages
Sleep occurs in four stages: light sleep (stages one and two), deep sleep (stage three), and REM sleep. Each stage serves a distinct purpose, from transitioning into deeper rest to physical recovery and cognitive functioning. Missing any stage can lead to significant health issues. Dr. Muthinji highlights the importance of cycling through all stages for optimal well-being.
A Call to Prioritise Rest
As the festive season continues, Mwende Kimeli encourages everyone to include quality sleep as part of their resolutions for the coming year. Giving your body the gift of rest is not only a necessity but also a cornerstone of long-term health and productivity.
