Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on insomnia and sleep efficiency in parents and caregivers of young children

Abstract

IntroductionDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, sleep problems were highly prevalent. However, few studies assess sleep quality among parents and caregivers with young children. This study aimed to describe the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep patterns among parents and caregivers with young children (<6 years) and identify the factors associated with insomnia and sleep efficiency.MethodsAn internet sample of 136 caregivers (age: 35 ± 9.7 y, 70.6% female) were recruited internationally from May 21, 2020 to July 1, 2020. Participants completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale-10 (CES-D-10), Sleep Hygiene and Practices Scale (SHPS), Coronavirus Impact Scale (CIS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and sleep patterns prior to and during the pandemic. Hierarchical regressions were conducted to examine the factors associated with insomnia and sleep efficiency.ResultsNearly 40% of the caregivers reported household incomes <$10,000. More than half reported clinical levels of depressive symptoms (59.2%) and low sleep efficiency (65.8%). Approximately 90% reported that their sleep-wake routine was altered with delayed bedtime and midpoint, and more naps and nightmares. Almost half (51.5%) were experiencing clinically meaningful insomnia symptoms. Greater insomnia symptom severity was independently associated with lower income, greater depressive symptoms, poor sleep hygiene behaviors, altered sleep-wake routine, and greater COVID-related disruptions in daily life. The predictors associated with poor sleep efficiency during the pandemic were lower income and poor sleep efficiency before the pandemic.DiscussionThe study highlighted the factors associated with insomnia and poor sleep efficiency during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interventions are needed to support caregivers' sleep during global crises.