Abstract

Objective: To quantify the relationship between sleep quality and selfperceived physical and mental health in university students aged 20-29 years, and to identify gaps in the adoption of sleep promoting practices. Methods: A cross sectional survey of 100 students (62 females, 38 males) was conducted using convenience sampling. An online questionnaire combined items adapted from the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale with self-reported indicators of health (daytime fatigue, concentration problems, mood swings, stress/anxiety). Total scores were classified into four sleep quality categories (i.e., excellent, good, fair, and poor). Associations between sleep category and health outcomes were analysed by chi-square test. Results: Among the 100 participants (62 females, 38 males), categorized according to sleep quality scores showed a significant association with overall self-rated health (p = 0.0003). Poor sleep was linked to increased daytime fatigue, mood swings, concentration issues, and stress. A dose-esponse relationship indicated that declining sleep quality corresponded with worsening physical and psychological health. Notably, 76% of participants reported not using any sleep improvement strategies. Conclusions: Variations in sleep duration and quality are closely associated with both physical and psychological health among young adults. The high prevalence of inadequate sleep and the limited adoption of remedial strategies underscore a critical focus area for health promotion initiatives within universities. Future studies should evaluate structured sleep education and behavioral interventions to determine whether enhancing sleep facilitates sustained improvements in student well-being.

Keywords: Sleep quality, Sleep and health, Sleep hygiene, Psychological stress