Athletes' Sleepless Nights: Study Reveals Hidden Risks

We've all experienced those moments when the pressure of performance feels almost palpable—like a football player preparing to make a game-winning shot, complete with noticeable bags under their eyes. It's the culmination of years of hard work, yet that ideal moment is often preceded by a restless night, as sleep remains elusive. A recent study from Flinders University reveals that a significant number of athletes suffer from sleep disorders, and for many, these issues continue even after their sports careers come to a close.

"The early morning training schedules and late evening sessions can have a huge impact on their sleep quality," shares Ashley Montero, PhD candidate and lead investigator of the study. As the Port Adelaide team faces a crucial semi-final, it’s hard not to wonder how many players wrestle with sleeplessness ahead of the big game.

Furthermore, many athletes find themselves lying awake at night, consumed with thoughts of their upcoming performance or replaying their past endeavors—this is especially true for those who have recently transitioned out of professional sports. "For many, nighttime can amplify these worries," notes Montero. "Some even experience nightmares related to past challenges in their sporting careers."

Take Australian Paralympian Anu Francis, for example; she recently placed fourth in the triathlon in Paris and has oftentimes found herself battling insomnia due to pre-race nerves. "I can lie awake for hours contemplating the race ahead, which often leads to only four to five hours of sleep," she admits. Before her race in Paris, Francis endured a particularly restless night, waking up multiple times due to vivid dreams expressing her anxieties about the event.

According to a 2022 audit by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), a striking 39.2% of high-performance athletes reported experiencing mild sleep disturbances, while 28.3% faced moderate to severe issues. Mental health professional Nicole Burattin delves into this observation, stating that sleep problems can frequently be both an indicator and a contributor to mental health struggles. "Poor sleep can have detrimental effects on wellbeing and athletic performance alike, with increased risks of injury and slower reaction times," she explains.

The AIS