The exact number of times it’s ‘normal’ to wake up during night

We’ve all endured nights where proper rest seems impossible, whether from restless tossing and turning, feeling sick or a trip to the bathroom. But research has revealed how frequently we should expect to wake – and this figure shifts as we age.

A study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research discovered we may be more night-active than previously thought, with one-third of people fully awakening during the night at least three times weekly. Meanwhile, separate research found nearly a quarter rise at least once nightly.

Substantial wake-ups are something we are more likely to remember, and we experience these around three times a night. This is considered normal and does not affect morning alertness, reports Surrey Live.

However, advancing age brings earlier morning alertness, meaning these disturbances could leave you completely awake and energised around 3am or 4am. People previously waking two or three times nightly may see this figure nearly double to four or five occasions once they hit the age of 60, as their circadian rhythm gets shorter.

The NHS acknowledges poor sleep’s detrimental effects, stating: “Sleep problems are common, and the reasons we struggle to sleep are likely to change throughout our lives – for instance, illness, work or having a baby are possible causes.

“A few sleepless nights are usually nothing to worry about, but it can become an issue if a lack of sleep starts to affect your daily life. If poor sleep is affecting your daily life or causing you distress, call NHS 111 or talk to your GP.”

Additional factors that can impact nocturnal awakenings include stress levels, caffeine consumption, surroundings, and underlying health issues, though it’s normal to remain conscious for only a few minutes to up to 30 minutes.

Generally speaking, the health service recommends a fit adult typically requires approximately seven to nine hours of rest nightly, though wellbeing and lifestyle factors can influence actual sleep requirements.

Indicators that you might be suffering from sleep deprivation or experiencing sleep disorders can encompass struggling to drift off, remaining alert for extended periods during the night, stirring multiple times throughout the evening, awakening prematurely and being unable to return to slumber, experiencing low spirits or diminished mood, struggling with focus and displaying increased irritability compared to normal.