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China’s Sleep Economy: The Rise of Sleeping Assistants Amidst Growing Insomnia Crisis, (from page 20221031.)

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Summary

China is witnessing a rise in insomnia, with over 300 million people affected by sleep disorders. In response, a new market for ‘sleeping assistants’ has emerged on platforms like Taobao, where users can pay for one-on-one chats to help them sleep. Services are offered at various price points, from 5 yuan for a short chat to 33,440 yuan monthly for premium assistance. These assistants, often portrayed as young and attractive, engage clients through bedtime conversations, stories, or simply providing companionship. The phenomenon highlights the growing ‘sleep economy,’ which is expected to reach 1 trillion yuan by 2030, as many turn to sleep apps, smart devices, and other products to combat sleep deprivation.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Rise of Sleep Assistance Services Popularity of ‘sleeping assistants’ on e-commerce platforms for insomnia relief. Shift from traditional sleep aids to personalized digital assistance for sleep disorders. In 10 years, sleep assistance may become a mainstream service, integrated into daily routines for many. Increasing sleep disorders among young populations due to societal pressures and lifestyle changes. 4
Growth of the Sleep Economy The sleep industry in China is projected to be worth 1 trillion yuan by 2030. Transition from niche products to a significant economic sector focused on sleep wellness. In 10 years, the sleep economy could lead to new innovations in sleep technology and wellness products. Rising awareness of sleep health and its impact on overall well-being among consumers. 5
Cultural Acceptance of Non-Traditional Therapies Acceptance of unconventional support systems like sleep assistants for mental health. Change from relying solely on medical professionals to utilizing digital helpers for emotional support. In 10 years, non-traditional support systems may be recognized as viable options in mental health care. Growing openness to exploring diverse methods of emotional and psychological support. 4
Impact of ASMR in Sleep Solutions Increased use of ASMR techniques as a method for aiding sleep despite regulatory challenges. From limited ASMR content availability to a broader acceptance of sensory-based sleep aids. In 10 years, ASMR could evolve into a regulated and widely accepted form of sleep therapy. Rising demand for alternative relaxation techniques amid increasing stress levels in society. 3
Emergence of Personalized Digital Interactions Clients seeking personalized interactions for comfort and sleep improvement. Shift from generic sleep solutions to tailored interactions designed for individual needs. In 10 years, technology may enable highly personalized sleep assistance experiences through AI. Advancements in AI and user preferences for customized experiences in digital services. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Mental Health Deterioration The rise in insomnia and reliance on sleep assistants highlights a growing mental health crisis among young people in China. 5
Exploitation of Vulnerable Populations Businesses capitalizing on insomnia may exploit vulnerable individuals by profiting from their need for help and support. 4
Quality of Interactions The quality and effectiveness of interactions with sleep assistants may vary, raising concerns about the professional and emotional support provided. 3
Dependence on Sleep Economy As dependency on sleep assistance grows, individuals may rely too heavily on commercial solutions rather than addressing underlying issues. 4
Regulatory Challenges The crackdown on ASMR content by authorities may limit effective restorative practices for sleep, constraining innovative solutions. 3
Social Isolation Relying on virtual assistants for comfort may increase feelings of loneliness and social isolation among users. 4
E-commerce Reliability With the rise of sleep aid services on platforms like Taobao, questions of trust and reliability in e-commerce remain a concern for consumers. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Use of Sleep Assistants Individuals are hiring ‘sleeping assistants’ for emotional support and relaxation before bedtime, indicating a new trend in seeking companionship for sleep aid. 5
Monetization of Sleep Solutions The emergence of a ‘sleep economy’ with businesses offering various products and services aimed at alleviating sleep disorders, reflecting a growing market demand. 5
Youth Engagement in Sleep Services Young demographics, including students and professionals, are increasingly turning to sleep-related services, highlighting the impact of societal pressures on mental health. 4
ASMR Alternatives Amid Regulations With restrictions on ASMR content, users are exploring alternative soothing services, showcasing adaptability in seeking relaxation methods. 4
Peer Interaction for Emotional Support Users report positive experiences with sleep assistants providing companionship, indicating a shift towards valuing emotional support in non-traditional formats. 5

Technologies

description relevancy src
Services providing one-on-one chats with ‘sleeping assistants’ to help clients prepare for bedtime through voice calls and texts. 4 3fbb11d6e949d1e662aa6a146bb6cda0
A growing industry focused on products and services aimed at improving sleep, projected to be worth 1 trillion yuan by 2030. 5 3fbb11d6e949d1e662aa6a146bb6cda0
Mobile applications designed to help users improve their sleep quality and manage sleep disorders. 4 3fbb11d6e949d1e662aa6a146bb6cda0
Technological devices specifically designed to assist in sleep enhancement and monitoring. 4 3fbb11d6e949d1e662aa6a146bb6cda0
Autonomous sensory meridian response content used to promote relaxation and aid in sleeping, though facing regulatory challenges in China. 3 3fbb11d6e949d1e662aa6a146bb6cda0

Issues

name description relevancy
Sleep Economy Expansion The rise of services and products targeting sleep disorders, creating a new market estimated to be worth 1 trillion yuan by 2030. 5
Popularity of Sleeping Assistants Increasing demand for sleeping assistants on platforms like Taobao indicates a shift in how individuals seek help for insomnia and relaxation. 4
Impact of Insomnia on Young Population A significant portion of the young population in China, including students and professionals, is suffering from insomnia due to rising pressures. 4
Regulation of ASMR Content Crackdown on ASMR content by anti-porn authorities suggests a tension between therapeutic practices and censorship in China. 3
Mental Health and Emotional Support Services Services providing emotional support through interactions with sleeping assistants highlight the growing need for mental health resources. 4