Do you struggle to get to sleep with your partner in the bed? Or is your partner kept awake by your snoring? These are just some of the issues leading couples to consider a ‘sleep divorce’ – but don’t worry, it’s not as bad as it sounds.
It’s not a totally new concept, but a ‘sleep divorce’ is when a couple who formerly slept in the same bed move to sleeping in separate beds, sometimes even in separate rooms. Instead of spelling disaster for the couple, many report their relationships improve when they are able to get a quality night’s sleep.
Emma Meritt, senior sleep science manager at Emma Sleep says people often underestimate what lack of sleep can do to them, and the effect it can have on personal relationships.
“Poor sleep quality can negatively impact a relationship, and vice versa… Sleep plays an essential role in bolstering our emotional regulation, stress management, and ability to look on the bright side of things – all essential capabilities for a strong partnership,” she told news.com.au.
Ms Merrit says people shouldn’t be worried for their relationship if sleeping separately is suggested.
“Sleep divorce has nothing to do with a breakdown of the relationship – in fact, it can be a critical step towards saving your relationship,” she explains.
“When both parties are consistently well-rested, couples may experience less conflict overall or find that they come to a resolution more quickly than when one or both of them is sleep-deprived.”
Do you sleep separately to your partner? Do you think it might be a good idea for you?
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