Some two fifths (39%) of Germans use medication or supplements to help them sleep, a new study by Pronova BKK has revealed.
According to the Sleep Study 2024, which surveyed some 2,000 participants aged 18 or over, the use of sleeping aids is higher among the Generation Z cohort (aged 18-29), where some 57% turn to supplements to help them sleep, compared to just 28% of those over 60.
Commenting on the findings, Dr. Gerd Herold of Pronova BKK attributed this trend to younger adults’ readiness to use medication without fully considering its risks. “It would therefore be important to better inform young adults about healthy sleeping habits and alternatives to medication,” he said.
Prescription medication
The study also highlights concerning patterns relating to long-term prescription medication use, with more than half of those surveyed that were prescribed sleeping pills using them for at least a year, and one in five taking them for more than four years.
“Prescription sleeping pills are a serious measure and should be used in a targeted manner,” Herold commented. “Benzodiazepines such as Valium help with sleep disorders, but they are addictive. This is especially true if they are taken over several weeks. They should therefore only be taken for a short time – if at all – and under medical supervision.”
Herbal remedies, meanwhile, including valerian, passionflower, lemon balm, and hops, are the most popular sleep aids, used by 29% of respondents, the study found.
Evening rituals
In terms of the pre-bedtime rituals observed by Germans, the study noted differences in the habits of men and women.
Watching television is the most common pre-sleep activity for both genders, with half of the respondents engaging in it. Women are more likely to read before bed (32%), while men are more likely to favour sex (22%) compared to women (9%).
Both sexes enjoy cuddling (17%) before dozing off, while 12% of men and 11% of women have a cigarette before going to bed. However, traditional rituals like drinking hot milk with honey are less common (3%).
The study was carried out between September and October 2024. More information can be found here.
