Delegate: Montserrat Reséndiz-García & Matilde Valencia Flores. Clínica de Trastornos del Dormir, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán – UNAM
Delegate Short Bio: Researcher at INCMNSZ
Professor of the Master’s Program in Sleep Disorders
Scope of Activity: Individual activity
Activity: On World Sleep Day 2026, we implemented a comprehensive outreach initiative to promote sleep health among outpatients of the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ), their families, institutional staff, and the broader community—including children, adolescents, and adults—at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) campus. Activities were conducted on March 13 and 20, integrating education, engagement, and behavioral intervention.
The Sleep Roulette
An interactive educational tool in which each segment of a roulette wheel featured a specific organ system. Participants spun the wheel and received concise explanations regarding the physiological role of sleep in the selected organ, emphasizing the systemic consequences of insufficient sleep and the importance of achieving adequate sleep duration.
Sleep Capsules: Did You Know?
Participants engaged with brief, evidence-based messages addressing key aspects of sleep health, including physiological functions, the consequences of chronic sleep deprivation, the benefits of restorative sleep, and the links between sleep disorders and chronic diseases. These messages were presented in colored capsules that participants could open and take home, reinforcing knowledge retention. Complementary activities included a sleep-themed memory game featuring concepts such as circadian rhythms, healthy sleep environments, and common sleep disorders.
21-Day Sleep Hygiene Challenge
A structured behavioral intervention program was designed to promote sustainable improvements in sleep habits. Participants selected one of four personalized challenges based on an initial sleep assessment and received tailored recommendations to facilitate adherence. Each individual was provided with a 21-day log to monitor progress.
To enhance adherence and engagement, participants were enrolled in a WhatsApp support group, where they received ongoing guidance and motivational messages. Additionally, weekly individualized follow-up calls were conducted to assess progress, address barriers, and reinforce behavioral strategies. Notably, participants began reporting measurable benefits within the first week, including improved well-being, reduced irritability, better weight regulation, and decreased ocular discomfort. The intervention also demonstrated a ripple effect, as participants extended these practices to family members, amplifying its impact at the household level.
Participants who successfully completed the challenge were recognized with symbolic incentives, such as pillows or mugs, to reinforce positive behavioral change.
Educational Materials and Creative Engagement
Printed materials on sleep hygiene were distributed alongside sleep masks, which participants personalized through creative activities involving sleep-related illustrations. This approach fostered both cognitive and emotional engagement with the concept of sleep health.
Overall, this initiative combined scientific rigor with community-centered strategies, demonstrating that accessible, interactive, and sustained interventions can effectively promote sleep health awareness and behavioral change across diverse populations.
Location: Ciudad de México.
Date of Activity: March 13 and 20.
