Conference Agenda

Background and aim

Sleep is a major determinant of mental health and psychological wellbeing. In France, nearly one in five people sleeps less than six hours per night, and 45% of the population reports experiencing at least one sleep disorder. Scientific evidence also shows that regular physical activity improves both the quality and regularity of sleep, which itself acts as a protective factor for mental health. France adopted an interministerial roadmap on sleep (2025–2026) aimed at strengthening the prevention of sleep disorders by addressing health behaviours, including physical activity. This abstract presents this public policy approach linking the promotion of physical activity, improved sleep, and mental health prevention.

Methods

The roadmap was developed through a cross-governmental process involving the health, education, labor and research sectors. It promotes behaviors that support healthy sleep, including regular physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior. Prevention messages and initiatives disseminated by national health institutions emphasize that physical activity, together with nutrition and sleep, constitutes a key determinant of overall health. These principles are reflected in the communication strategies and recommendations of the French National Nutrition and Health Programme (PNNS) which encourages the adoption of active lifestyles.

Results

This approach contributes to better integrating the interactions between physical activity, sleep and mental health within prevention policies. Joint mobilization of actors from the health, education and prevention sectors helps promote behaviours that support healthier daily rhythms and psychological wellbeing. Monitoring mechanisms are planned to assess the implementation of the roadmap and its contribution to improving health behaviours.