UK adults fall short of NHS sleep guidelines - averaging just 6 hours a night

UK adults fall short of NHS sleep guidelines - averaging just 6 hours a nightNew survey finds UK adults have a weekly sleep deficit of over eight hours per person – the equivalent of a full night's sleep every weekCommentsNewsKathryn Chatfield18:19, 22 Apr 2026Updated 18:21, 22 Apr 2026Curaleaf share their guide to a good night's sleepOne in four Britons are surviving on a mere five hours of sleep per night - with pain, anxiety and toilet trips keeping them wide awake. NHS guidelines state that the average adult requires between seven and nine hours of shut-eye nightly, yet most adults are falling well short, managing just over six hours on average.‌A survey of 4,000 adults has uncovered that the UK has a weekly shortfall of more than eight hours per person, the equivalent of a full night's sleep every week. According to the research, 44% describe themselves as 'sleep deprived' – a figure that climbs to 54% amongst those living with diagnosed health conditions.‌View 2 ImagesNearly half describe themselves as 'sleep deprived'(Image: Getty Images)‌The results come from research commissioned by the UK's first medical cannabis clinic, Curaleaf Clinic, to highlight awareness of the impact disrupted sleep can have, particularly amongst those living with chronic conditions. As 28% of those with a health condition said they would do "anything" for a good night's rest.Dr David Garley, a sleep expert, said: "One disturbed night can be enough to throw the body off balance. If poor sleep starts to accumulate, it can heighten emotional reactivity, reduce resilience and can leave the mind and body struggling to cope."It can lower pain thresholds, disrupt repair pathways and affect emotional regulation, with this risk heightened for those living with chronic pain or mental health conditions."‌For those who experience a fortnight or more of poor sleep, 10% gain weight, 24% are overwhelmed by small tasks and 23% s...