Americans Are Sleeping Less than they did 20 years ago, and about 50 to 70 million people nationwide suffer from chronic sleep loss and sleep disorders, reports the CDC. 10% of adults report not getting enough rest or sleep in any of the previous 30 days. Only 29.6% say they got enough rest or sleep every day in the past month. 13% aged 18-34 report insufficient sleep every day in the past month vs. only 7% of those 55 and older. A separate National Sleep Foundation study found the average adult gets 6 hours and 40 minutes of sleep each night; adults need 7-9 hours, teens 8.5 to 9.5, and children, aged 5-12, need 9-11. About a third of those surveyed fell asleep or became very sleepy at work in the last month. The average worker gets up at 5:35 A.M., leaves for work at 7:50 A.M., and goes to bed at 10:53 P.M. The CDC suggests, “Stick to a regular sleeping schedule. Sleep in a dark, well ventilated room at a comfortable temperature. Avoid stimulating activities within 2 hours of bedtime. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the evening. Avoid going to bed on a full or empty stomach. See a doctor if you are having chronic sleep problems.” (Pastors Weekly Briefing 3/7/08)