Spain is facing a growing sleep problem and most people aren’t doing much about it.

A new 2026 Sleep Disorders Barometer, based on a survey of 1,200 adults across Spain, has revealed a stark gap between how much people value sleep and how little they actually prioritise it.

The headline figure is striking: 57% of Spaniards report having trouble sleeping, with 38% suffering regularly and a further 19% experiencing issues from time to time.

Despite 96% of respondents saying sleep is essential for good health, the reality tells a different story.

Around 43% admit they don’t get the recommended 7-8 hours a night, rising to nearly half among those aged 50 to 64.

Even more telling, 58% say they have done nothing to improve their sleep, a figure that climbs to 64% among over-65s.

Women and older adults hit hardest

Sleep problems increase significantly with age. Among those over 50, 42% say they regularly struggle to sleep.

Women are also more affected than men, with 60% reporting issues compared to 54% of men.

Meanwhile, more than a quarter of the population (27%) say their sleep has worsened enough in the past year to consider seeing a specialist.

Screens and lifestyle habits to blame

There is clear awareness of what’s causing the problem but behaviour hasn’t caught up.

A large majority recognise that screen use before bed (77%) and caffeine or alcohol (79%) negatively impact sleep. Yet these habits remain widespread.

The study also found that 72% believe sleep is not taken as seriously in Spain as diet or exercise, despite its critical role in overall health.

Regional differences

Sleep issues vary across Spain.

The Basque Country and Canary Islands reported the highest levels of regular sleep problems (47%), while Galicia (28%) and Murcia (29%) recorded the lowest.

Lack of knowledge and action

Although most people have heard of basic sleep concepts like REM and non-REM cycles, three in ten still don’t fully understand them.

There is also confusion about where to seek help.

While two-thirds know about specialised hospital sleep units, awareness drops sharply among younger people – and only around 1% would think to use them.

Nearly a quarter of respondents said they wouldn’t know which specialist to consult.

Hidden conditions still under the radar

The study also highlights a lack of awareness around conditions like narcolepsy.

Four in ten Spaniards have never heard of it, and although many correctly identify it as a neurological disorder, misconceptions remain.

Long-term sleep deprivation is strongly linked to hypertension, coronary artery disease and stroke. Poor sleep disrupts blood pressure regulation and keeps the body in a heightened stress state (sympathetic activation), which damages blood vessels.

Cognitive decline

Persistently poor sleep also affects memory consolidation and brain repair processes.

Over time, this is associated with reduced concentration, impaired decision-making, and a higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

If you struggle to sleep, you should consult with your family doctor.