The Combined Effect of Sleep Duration and Quality on Mental Health Among Republic of Korea Armed Forces

Abstract

Sleep problems in the Republic of Korea Armed Forces have increased. This study analyzed the mental health impact of sleep duration and quality on personnel of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. Data from the 2014 Military Health Survey were used. Degree of sleep duration and quality were measured by this self-reported questionnaire. Analysis of variance was carried out to compare Kessler Psychological Distress Scale 10 (K10) scores. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified associations between sleep duration, quality, and K10 scores. Among the personnel studied, 2.5% reported severe sleep difficulties. The average sleep duration was 6.83 ± 1.12 hours. Short sleep duration and sleep difficulty were associated with poorer K10 scores. Higher K10 scores among individuals with short sleep duration and low sleep quality were identified in the isolated military area group, the over 53 working hours/week group, and the enlisted soldier group. The factors listed were not by themselves associated with poorer mental health scores. Rather, specific workplaces and specific rank groups were more prone to poorer mental health. These results provide helpful information to minimize the negative psychological effects of sleep factors and to promote a sleep problem prevention and management policy.