HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 June 2025 - As the economic outlook remains gloomy, stress levels among Hongkongers continue to rise. A recent survey shows that many locals feel overwhelmed by stress, which disrupts their sleep and creates a vicious cycle that severely affects both their emotional well-being and physical health. In light of this, Adrien Gagnon commissioned ESDlife to conduct the "Hong Kong Sleep and Stress Survey" in May 2025. The online survey interviewed 540 respondents in Hong Kong to examine sleep challenges and stress triggers. The goal was to raise awareness about sleep health and stress management, and to guide the public toward natural, long-lasting solutions to improve both "difficulty falling asleep" and "waking easily."


81% of Workers Skip Work Due to Sleep Deprivation
Mondays Most Common for Sick Leave as Employees Create Their Own Mini-Holidays
Under mounting pressure, many employees admit to "calling in sick" just to take a breather. The survey reveals that 82% have considered taking sick leave simply to avoid work. Among them, 81% cited sleep deprivation, while 64% blamed overwhelming stress. Additionally, 64% of respondents reported having at least one "sickie" impulse per month, a sign that stress has deeply impacted their mental and physical health. When asked about their preferred sick days, the top choices were Mondays (43%), after long holidays (25%), Fridays (24%), the day after working overtime (24%), and rainy or cold days (18%). (See Table 1)

64% Struggle to Fall Asleep, 81% Wake Easily
Nearly 60% Suffer from Both Sleep Problems; 80% Seek Dual-Solution Treatments
Sleep problems top the list of modern-day work-life struggles. Among respondents, 64% reported trouble falling asleep, and a significant 81% said they wake up easily. Almost 60% experience both sleep problems simultaneously. However, 77% said they lack effective methods to address both sleep problems at once. A full 80% expressed a desire for dual action release solutions.

Psychiatrist Dr. Ka Yau Wong, Raymond explained: "Difficulty falling asleep and waking easily are two different sleep disorders. Difficulty falling asleep is usually stress-related, while waking easily may be linked to melatonin levels. Melatonin is only released in the dark, its production decreases with daylight or screen exposure. Dual action release melatonin supplements can provide extended support by releasing melatonin in two phases, helping the body fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. To tackle both sleep problems effectively, one must manage stress and regulate melatonin to improve the sleep cycle and overall sleep quality."

91% of Hongkongers Suffer from Stress Due to Work and Life Pressures
87% Say Stress Affects Their Sleep Quality
Beyond sleep problems, the primary reason workers want to skip work is stress. The survey found that 91% of respondents are currently dealing with stress from work and life, and 83% reported a sense of helplessness. This highlights the prevalence of stress among Hongkongers. Stress was shown to cause sleep problems (78%), irritability (58%), loss of motivation (40%), lower work efficiency (34%), and even social withdrawal (33%) (see Table 2).

Alarmingly, 76% of respondents felt more stressed this year than last, yet 40% admitted they are not addressing it and simply hoping it will resolve itself. Meanwhile, 87% noted that stress has negatively impacted their sleep quality. Dr. Wong warned: "Stress-related sleep problems needs timely attention. Prolonged avoidance of stress without proper relief could worsen the condition, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and further deterioration in sleep quality."

85% Seek Long-Lasting Sleep Solutions
Pharmacist Recommend Dual Action Release Supplements for Dual Sleep Problems
With nearly 60% experiencing both difficulty falling asleep and waking easily, 85% of respondents said they are looking for long-lasting sleep solutions. Registered pharmacist Mr. Ian Cheung advised: "Those dealing with dual insomnia problems may benefit from melatonin supplements with a 'dual action release' formula for comprehensive effect. These supplements provide an initial fast release to help you fall asleep, followed by a slow, sustained release that maintains melatonin levels overnight, tackling both early and mid-sleep disturbances. Some dual action release melatonin products combine Western herbal ingredients to address stress-related insomnia. If your sleep problems are caused by stress, consider formulas that include calming Western herbs."

Nearly 60% Are Aware of Western Herbs for Stress Relief
72% Will Consider Herbal Supplements for Stress Reduction
When it comes to stress and sleep improvement, most respondents prefer natural solutions. "Western herbs like Eschscholzia californica and Hops are scientifically proven to ease stress and anxiety," Cheung explained. "They can help improve sleep quality and are suitable for those who prefer natural remedies. Reducing stress naturally can prevent work avoidance and maintain daily function."

The survey also revealed that 59% of respondents were aware that Western herbal supplements can aid in sleep and stress relief. When selecting health supplements, 63% prefer Western brands, and 72% are willing to try herbal ingredients for stress relief. Cheung added, "If symptoms persist despite using natural products, professional medical consultation should be considered."

For more information, please visit:
https://www.adriengagnon.com.hk/en/product'category=sleep-and-stress&group=

Appendix
Table 1: Most Popular Days for Taking Sick Leave ("Sickies")

Most Popular Days for Taking Sick Leave ("Sickies")	Percentage
Monday	43%
After long holidays	25%
Friday	24%
Day after working overtime	24%
Rainy/cold days	18%
Wednesday	15%
Meeting-heavy days	11%
Thursday	9%
Deadline days	8%
Tuesday	7%

* Multiple answers allowed

Table 2: Impact of Stress on Sleep and Daily Life

Stress Symptoms	Percentage
Sleep problems / insomnia	78%
Irritability	58%
Wanting to skip work	47%
Loss of motivation	40%
Lower work efficiency	34%
Social withdrawal	33%

* Multiple answers allowed

Table 3: Key Factors in Choosing Western Herbal Supplements

Consideration	Percentage
Product safety and certification	28%
Ingredient transparency	22%
Effectiveness & longevity (e.g., dual action release)	11%

* Multiple answers allowed