Sleep Divorces: A Growing Trend in American Bedrooms A recent survey reveals a startling statistic: more than a third of Americans are engaging in "sleep divorces," a phenomenon where couples choose to sleep in separate beds or rooms.

This trend, far from indicating marital discord, is increasingly seen as a strategy to improve sleep quality and overall relationship satisfaction.

The survey (specify the source and date of the survey here, if available) highlights the significant impact sleep disruptions can have on relationships.

Snoring, restless leg syndrome, different sleep schedules, varying temperature preferences, and even differing sleep positions can lead to fragmented sleep and daytime fatigue for partners.

This chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to irritability, decreased intimacy, and ultimately, strain on the relationship.

For many couples, the decision to sleep separately is not a sign of failure, but rather a proactive measure to prioritize individual well-being and, consequently, strengthen their partnership.

By eliminating sleep disruptions caused by a partner's habits, each individual enjoys more restful sleep, leading to increased energy levels, improved mood, and a greater capacity for connection during waking hours.

However, the trend isn't without its potential downsides.

Some couples may worry that sleeping apart signifies a lack of intimacy or emotional connection.

This concern highlights the importance of open communication and mutual understanding.

For a sleep divorce to be successful, it's crucial for couples to discuss their reasons for considering it, establish clear expectations, and maintain regular intimacy outside of the bedroom.

The rising popularity of sleep divorces underscores a growing awareness of the importance of sleep health for both individual well-being and marital harmony.

While the decision to sleep separately might seem unconventional, it's increasingly viewed as a pragmatic solution for couples seeking a better night's rest and a stronger relationship overall.

Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of sleep divorces on relationship dynamics, but the initial findings suggest it can be a surprisingly effective strategy for many couples.

say they occasionally or consistently sleep in another room from their partner, according to a survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

The practice of sleeping separately known as a  and is meant to help you fall asleep and stay asleep without disruptions such as snoring, stolen covers or early alarms.

"We know that poor sleep can worsen your mood, and those who are sleep deprived are more likely to argue with their partners. There may be some resentment toward the person causing the sleep disruption which can negatively impact relationships," Dr. Seema Khosla, a pulmonologist and spokesperson for the AASM, said in a news release Monday. "Getting a good night's sleep is important for both health and happiness, so it's no surprise that some couples choose to sleep apart for their overall well-being."

The group's survey of 2,005 adults in the U.S. found that 43% of millennials engage in sleep divorce, followed by 33% of those in Generation X, 28% of those in Generation Z and 22% of baby boomers.

"Although the term 'sleep divorce' seems harsh, it really just means that people are prioritizing sleep and moving into a separate room at night when needed," Khosla added.

"There are benefits for some partners to sleep separately," Dr. Erin Flynn-Evans, a consultant to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, . "Studies demonstrate that when one bed partner has a sleep disorder it can negatively affect the other sleeper. For example, bed partners tend to wake up at the same time when one has insomnia. Similarly, when bed partners differ in chronotype, like when one is a night owl the other is an early bird, these differing sleep preferences can negatively impact both partners' sleep."

On the other hand, sleeping with your partner can help in detecting conditions you may have been unaware of, Flynn-Evans said, as sleep clinicians use reports from bed partners to help identify patients with sleep disorders.

"For example, a person might report that their bed partner snores loudly, prompting them to seek treatment for ," she said.

Dr. Daniel Shade, a sleep specialist with Allegheny Health Network, previously told if couples are honest with themselves, they'll likely know whether there's a problem.

"You're snoring and you're thrashing about, (it) disturbs your partner, or you're getting up at 4 a.m. to go to work, or you have to use the bathroom many times in a night, and that can get disruptive," Shade said, noting other factors that may also affect sleep, like differing preferences in light, temperature or even TV usage at night.

But, if there are no sleep problems, Shade said, "by all means, sleeping in the same bed is better."

"We release oxytocin and some other chemicals that are called 'the cuddling hormones,' and things that give us a good feeling and bring us closer to that person we're imprinting upon that we're with," he said.