ABSTRACT
Long-term exposure to work demands and general stress is viewed as a major cause of insomnia. Lack of work control and social support also show similar links. Polysomnography findings reveal modest effects, such as a slightly increased sleep latency or slightly decreased sleep efficiency, following periods of increased day-to-day stress. However, long-term exposure to stress leading to sickness absence may result in profoundly disturbed sleep. One key factor seems to be worries (rumination) at bedtime, often related to upcoming difficulties during the subsequent day.
