A study conducted by researchers at the University of Bergen in Norway suggests that sleep tracking apps may exacerbate anxiety among individuals with insomnia by increasing awareness of sleep quality. While some users report positive insights into their sleep patterns, those suffering from insomnia tend to experience more negative repercussions.
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Håkon Lundekvam Berge, the study's first author, emphasized the need for the scientific community to keep pace with rapid developments in sleep app technology. The research revealed that younger adults, particularly those aged 18-35, were more influenced by app feedback. They reported not only perceived benefits but also higher levels of anxiety and stress related to sleep.
The sleep-tracking industry has seen significant growth, with the US sleep-tracking devices market generating around $5 billion (approximately €4.25 billion) in 2023. Forecasts suggest this revenue could double by 2030, according to Grand View Research.
Most sleep apps function through sensors in wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness bands, tracking sleep metrics such as latency, duration, and efficiency. Researchers surveyed over a thousand Norwegian participants, averaging 50 years of age, regarding their use of sleep apps and their sleep health.
The findings highlighted age as a key factor in users’ experiences. Younger groups reported both benefits, like improved sleep and prioritization of rest, and increased stress, indicating a susceptibility to the negative aspects of digital health data.
The authors cautioned that an intense focus on app feedback could diminish sleep quality. Karl Erik Lundekvam, the study’s second author, noted that individuals exhibiting insomnia symptoms were particularly prone to stress and worry spurred by sleep app data. Those with insomnia often experience heightened attentional bias toward sleep-related issues, which such monitoring tools can intensify.
Lundekvam advised users who feel stressed by sleep apps to familiarize themselves with the metrics these apps utilize and assess their accuracy. If worries persist, he recommended removing the device at night or disabling notifications. The study authors acknowledged that while the feedback from these apps could serve as motivation for establishing better sleep habits, such as reducing screen time before bed, over-reliance on the technology might be detrimental.