The National Board of Health (Sundhedsstyrelsen) has issued official guidelines for the first time on how much adults should sleep. The recommendations, based on the latest research, indicate that adults aged 18 to 64 should aim to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, while those over 65 should sleep between seven and eight hours. These new guidelines come in response to a significant portion of the adult population not getting the necessary amount of sleep, which can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health. The National Board of Health reports that one in three adults sleeps too little, which can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, weakened immune system, and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Maja Bækgaard Jørgensen, section leader at the National Board of Health, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep: “Our society is often structured in a way that tempts us to cut back on sleep to accomplish more during the day or to keep up with digital media. But it is important to remember that good sleep is fundamental to our health and well-being.” The National Board of Health also recommends sticking to regular bedtime and waking times to support a healthy sleep schedule. By following these new recommendations, the board hopes to improve the health and quality of life for adults across the country.

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