7. America’s Sleep Problem May Be Cultural, Not Medical

The United States ranks poorly for sleep health, and it’s not because Americans don’t want to rest. It’s because sleep is often sacrificed to keep up with 24/7 productivity. People glorify busyness, burn the midnight oil, and view rest as something earned, not essential. Despite a booming sleep industry, many Americans struggle with insomnia, anxiety, and disrupted circadian rhythms. Blue light exposure from screens, erratic work hours, and social media overload all chip away at rest. More experts now believe the solution isn’t just melatonin or meditation apps, but a cultural shift that redefines what it means to rest.