As a Weekend Catch-Up Sleeper, the Koala may not get as much rest during the weekdays, but sleep in on days off to make up for it.
Koalas typically have irregular sleep patterns during the week and extend their sleep on weekends or non-workdays to compensate for sleep debt.
During the workweek, Koalas often get around 5 to 6 hours of sleep per night which rises to 8 to 10 hours of sleep, sometimes even more, on weekends.
During the workweek, they may go to bed later than ideal, typically between 11AM and 1AM. Their bedtime may be delayed due to busy schedules or lifestyle factors, leading to insufficient sleep during the week.
On weekdays, they usually wake up early, typically between 6AM and 8AM. To recover from sleep deprivation accumulated during the week, weekend catch-up sleepers tend to sleep in later on weekends, waking up between 9:00AM and 11AM.
While catching up on sleep over the weekend can provide short-term relief, it’s often less restorative than maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. This pattern of irregular sleep can disrupt the circadian rhythm.
Koalas benefit from small adjustments, like prioritizing regular sleep duration throughout the week.
SIGNS OF KOALAS (WEEKEND CATCH-UP SLEEPERS)
Irregular Sleep Schedule – Bedtime and wake-up times vary significantly between weekdays and weekends. Shorter sleep duration during workdays, followed by extended sleep sessions on days off.
Difficulty Getting Enough Sleep During the Week – Regularly sleeps fewer than 6–7 hours per night during the week due to work, social, or lifestyle demands. Feels sleep-deprived and relies on the weekend to “catch up.”
Heavy Weekend Sleep In – Sleeps 2–3+ hours longer on weekends compared to weekdays. May find it hard to wake up early on weekends without external obligations.
Daytime Sleepiness During the Week – Feels drowsy, less focused, or more irritable during weekdays due to insufficient sleep. Relies on caffeine or naps to stay alert.
Difficulty Falling Asleep Sunday Night – Experiences “Sunday Night Insomnia,” struggling to fall asleep at the usual weekday bedtime. This is often caused by a shift in circadian rhythms after extended weekend sleep.
Improved Mood and Energy After Catching Up – Feels more refreshed, focused, and energized after longer weekend sleep sessions. Notices a positive difference in mood and performance compared to weekdays.
Social Jet Lag Symptoms – Feels out of sync with natural circadian rhythms, similar to jet lag. Has difficulty adjusting to weekday schedules after longer weekend sleep.
Lower Sleep Efficiency – Weekday sleep is often lighter, less restorative, or fragmented due to stress or insufficient time. Weekend catch-up sleep may involve longer stretches of deep sleep.
Reluctance to Change Habits – Feels dependent on the weekend to recover and reluctant to alter the lifestyle that creates the imbalance.
Potential Health Impacts – Over time, irregular sleep patterns may contribute to health issues like fatigue, weight gain, or mood disorders.
In a study conducted by researchers at Penn State’s College of Health and Human Development, Weekend Catch-Up Sleepers were identified as one of four distinct sleep patterns, alongside:
