Global Sleep Struggles: Insomnia, Nightmares, and Anxiety Keeping the World Awake
A new study by sleep experts at Pillow Talk has revealed the most common sleep issues affecting people worldwide, with insomnia, nightmares, and sleep anxiety leading the list of growing concerns.
Nichola Higgs, Merchandise Planner from Pillow Talk, says: “Sleep is the foundation of health and productivity, yet millions of people are finding it harder to rest properly. Our research shows that the most-searched sleep concerns are increasingly linked to stress, anxiety, and lifestyle factors, a sign that the modern world isn’t getting enough quality sleep.”
The research, conducted by sleep experts at Pillow Talk, analysed monthly online search trends to reveal conditions are causing sleep concerns.
Image Credit: Pillow Talk
Insomnia, Nightmares, and More: The Sleep Challenges Facing Australians Daily
The research found that insomnia remains the single biggest sleep concern, followed by parasomnias (such as sleepwalking), nightmares, hypersomnia, and delayed sleep cycles. These findings highlight that both psychological and behavioural sleep issues are widespread.
| Condition | National Monthly Searches (per 100k) |
| Insomnia | 140.33 |
| Parasomnias | 45.29 |
| Nightmares | 19.89 |
| Hypersomnia | 16.18 |
| Sleep Anxiety / Delayed Sleep Phase | 4.93 |
Nichola explains: “Even small improvements in your sleep environment can make a real difference. Many don’t realise how much their mattress, pillow, quilt, lighting, or room temperature can impact sleep quality. Making one simple change tonight, like switching to a supportive pillow, choosing the right quilt to regulate your body temperature, or using blockout curtains, can help reset your routine.”
Image Credit: Pillow Talk
A Shift Toward Natural Sleep Solutions
The study also identified a strong shift toward natural and self-managed sleep aids, as people seek alternatives to prescription medications. Search data shows year-on-year surges in interest for:
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation (+240%)
- Meditation Before Bed (+84%)
- Magnesium Glycinate (+90%)
- Phenergan Sleep (+140%)
- L-theanine Sleep (+84%)
Nichola Higgs comments: “People are clearly looking for ways to take control of their sleep. What’s encouraging is that many of these solutions don’t have to be expensive or complicated. Simple practices like progressive muscle relaxation or guided meditation before bed can have a significant impact on sleep.”
“Even small environmental changes, like adjusting lighting, reducing screen time before bed, or optimising room temperature, can dramatically improve rest.”
The Hidden Factors Behind Restless Nights
Pillow Talk’s research highlights that poor sleep often stems from a mix of stress, technology use, environmental factors, and irregular routines.
Searches related to “can’t sleep,” “racing thoughts,” and “how to fall asleep quickly” are growing rapidly, suggesting that overstimulation and mental load are major contributors to modern insomnia.
“In a world that’s always on, people are struggling to switch off,” Higgs explains. “The good news is that restfulness can be restored. Building a calm sleep environment and routine is one of the most powerful health choices we can make.”
