The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sleep Quality in the Turkish Population: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people all over the world have been confined to their homes and exposed to unprecedented levels of stress. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the factors which are affecting sleep quality in the Turkish population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The sample of this study consisted of 1023 individuals who completed a questionnaire by means of an online Google Forms connection by email and electronic communication between the dates of 12 July and 30 August 2020. A Personal Information Form, a Health Behavior Changes Form, the Numeric Rating Scale and the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to collect data. Results: It was found that 68.1% of the participants in the study had poor sleep quality and 31.9% had good sleep quality. Also, those with a history of contact with a person with COVID-19, or those who knew someone with COVID-19 in those close to them had significantly worse levels of sleep quality than the others (p<0.05). It may be predicted that participants with an education level of high school or lower, a low income, a reduction in physical activity or food intake, fatigue or high stress levels may have lower sleep quality. Conclusion: It is important to determine the factors affecting sleep quality during such large pandemics, and to provide the necessary support.