The impact of sleep-wake problems on health-related quality of life among Japanese nursing college students: a cross sectional survey

Aim This study was conducted to examine the impact of sleep-wake problems on health-related quality of life of Japanese nursing college students. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 150 third and fourth-year nursing college students from two locations in Japan. Insomnia severity was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and health-related quality of life using the SF-8 questionnaire. The total sleep time (TST) was divided into 3 groups: < 6 h, 6-7 h (reference), and >= 7 h. The total ISI score was divided into 2 groups: >= 8 points and < 8 points (reference). Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate sleep-wake problems related to decline in mental health. Results The median mental health indicated in the SF-8 questionnaire was divided into two groups, and the factors causing decline in mental health were investigated. The odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for adjusted ISI >= 8 and TST on weekdays < 6 h was 6.51 (2.96-14.30) and 3.38 (1.40-8.17), respectively. Mental health status was significantly lower when ISI >= 8 and even lower when TST < 6 h. Conclusion Insomnia and short sleep duration are associated with decreased mental health status in nursing college students. Many tended to lack sleep on weekdays. Sleep-wake problems identified while in university should be comprehensively dealt with.