Sleep: 6.5 hours isn't enough — four ways to sleep longer tonight

New surveys report adults average roughly 6.5 hours of sleep per night, below professional guidelines that generally recommend seven or more hours; experts describe four practical areas — sleep environment, schedule, bedtime routine and food/drink choices — that can affect duration and quality.

Recent surveys and expert guidance have highlighted that many adults are sleeping less than recommended. One UK survey found an average of about 6 hours 27 minutes a night, and another reported roughly 6 hours 10 minutes on a typical work night. A separate U.S. survey published earlier in 2026 found 38% of Americans sleep less than seven hours. Professional sleep organizations generally advise seven or more hours for most adults, and researchers have linked shorter sleep to lower life expectancy. Key facts: - UK surveys reported average nightly sleep near 6.5 hours and lower on work nights. - A U.S. survey found 38% of adults sleep under seven hours per night. - Sleep bodies such as the AASM, Sleep Research Society, NHS and National Sleep Foundation recommend about seven or more hours for most adults. - Research cited links sleeping fewer than seven hours nightly with reduced life expectancy, and experts note sleep quality (REM and deep sleep) also matters. - The article summarizes four reported areas for improvement: sleep environment, consistent schedule, calming bedtime routine and attention to daytime food and drink. Summary: Surveys indicate shorter nightly sleep is common and is associated in research with decreased life expectancy, while professional guidelines generally recommend seven or more hours for most adults. Experts and analysts describe four main areas that can influence how long and how well people sleep; further public health or research actions are undetermined at this time.