Sexual Orientation and Sleep Difficulties: Evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination (NHANES)

Abstract

This study aimed to examine differences in sleep difficulties among adults in the United States (aged 18–59) as a function of sexual orientation and physical health. Data came from the 2013 to 2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants (n = 4115) reported on demographics, sexual orientation, sleep, number of doctor visits, physical health, and depressive symptoms. In bivariate analyses, sleep difficulties that were confirmed by a healthcare professional were more likely among sexual minority than among heterosexual adults. After controlling for demographic variables, health problems, and depressive symptoms, bisexual adults were more likely than heterosexual adults to report confirmed sleep difficulties. Subsequent analysis revealed that depressive symptoms partially mediated the association of confirmed sleep difficulties and sexual orientation, particularly for bisexual women. Thus, our findings revealed that confirmed sleep difficulties were more common among bisexual adults – especially bisexual women - than among heterosexual or lesbian/gay adults. The results suggest that disparities in sleep, health, and depression warrant further investigation.