Matt Howard’s Closet Sleep arrangement Sparks Debate Over Mental Health and Marriage
Table of Contents
February 10, 2025
Popular social media couple Matt and Abby Howard have long attracted attention from online followers for their unconventional lifestyle choices and outspoken views on marriage roles. Once criticized for promoting “customary marriage roles” and defending the sanctity of marriage against divorce, the couple has now become the focal point of another discussion—this time around one partner’s choice to sleep apart for mental health reasons.
In a surprising move, Matt recently debuted his solo podcast, Night Shift with Matt howard
, where he revealed that for the past month, he has been sleeping in the couple’s walk-in closet rather of sharing the bed with his wife. The 26-year-old influencer demonstrated his new sleeping setup by filming himself lying on a mattress he had dragged from the guest bedroom.
Closet Confession and a Quest for Mental Health
during the initial episode of his podcast, Matt made a candid admission:
“This is super embarrassing, but I’ve been sleeping in our walk-in closet for the past month. This is our guest bedroom mattress that I dragged all the way from our guest bedroom into here.”
He explained that the decision was driven by a need to “prioritize his mental health.” Matt has been open about battling ADHD, anxiety, and depression over the years—a struggle that even inspired a personal song release last February titled Still Not Enough
, which deals with feelings of emptiness.
Marital Reactions and a Clash of Sleep Preferences
Not all discussions about alternative sleeping arrangements have been met with approval. In his podcast, Matt noted the disapproval of his 25-year-old wife, Abby, regarding his new sleeping habit. He remarked, I don’t know a spouse that would be stoked about their important other sleeping in the freaking closet
, underscoring the personal nature of the issue.
Abby further expressed her discontent during a recent episode of the couple’s joint podcast, Unplanned Podcast
, confessing, “I complain about it every night. I’m a lonely gal … say what you wont, but I am codependent.” She also mentioned that she dislikes having a queen-sized mattress occupy a shared closet space.
Despite the ongoing debate at home, Matt has tried to transform the closet into what he calls a “sleep paradise,” complete with a small AC unit, a portable humidifier, and essential oils. However, he assures listeners that this arrangement is temporary. Once his mental health improves, he intends to move back into the shared bed with Abby.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The revelation of sleeping apart stirred mixed reactions online. many commenters expressed shock, with one remarking, If my husband told me he had to go sleep in a closet, away from me for his mental health, I’d take that as personal as it gets
. Others confessed their inability to imagine a separation in sleep, stating, I wouldn’t be able to sleep without my husband. I need the warmth and knowing that he is there keeping me safe
.
Critics also questioned why Matt chose the guest bedroom mattress over utilizing the guest bedroom itself, with some suggesting that the video might have been designed as “rage bait.” These discussions have led observers to examine the idea of “sleep divorce,” a term that, despite its negative connotation, has been embraced by many couples across the United States.
A 2023 survey conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that more than one-third of American couples sleep in separate rooms. for many, the decision stems from practical challenges such as differing sleep schedules, snoring, or sleep disorders, all of which can severely impact sleep quality—and, by extension, overall well-being. In an environment that increasingly values mental health, some couples credit separate sleeping arrangements with strengthening their relationships rather than weakening them.
real-World Examples and Expert Insights
Matt’s experience is not isolated. Influencers and public figures have experimented with unconventional sleeping setups in pursuit of better rest and improved mental health. for example, in 2019, athlete and podcaster Rich Roll shared that he sleeps outdoors in a tent, away from his wife, as the change in environment improved his sleep quality. Yet, his marital relationship remains strong as he explained, We have our quality time, I promise you.Everything is fine in my marriage.
Such examples highlight that sleeping apart does not necessarily indicate marital discord but rather represents an adaptation to personal health needs. As more couples grapple with mental health challenges and the pressures of daily life, innovative approaches to personal space—like Matt’s temporary sleep setup or the broader concept of sleep divorce—offer practical solutions that deserve further exploration.
Experts and clinicians note that prioritizing uninterrupted sleep can bolster mental health substantially. Improved sleep quality is correlated with reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, and for some couples, maintaining individual sleep spaces has been an effective strategy to preserve both their personal well-being and their marital bond.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Individual Space and Marital Unity
While the conversation about sleep arrangements often attracts polarized opinions, it also opens up a broader dialog about the importance of sleep for mental and physical health. rather than viewing separate sleeping spaces as a sign of a failing marriage, many experts advocate for a more nuanced understanding that respects individual needs and circumstances. for U.S. couples facing similar challenges, adopting a flexible approach to sleeping arrangements can be both a practical and proactive way to safeguard overall well-being.
As the debate continues online and within relationships across the nation, one thing remains clear: personal well-being and mental health should take precedence. Whether through a cozy closet conversion or a dedicated guest room, couples are discovering that a well-rested mind may be the cornerstone of a stronger, more harmonious partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Matt Howard’s closet sleep arrangement?
Matt Howard’s closet sleep arrangement involves him sleeping on a guest bedroom mattress that he moved into their walk-in closet. He revealed this decision during his podcast, “Night Shift with Matt Howard.”
Why did Matt choose to sleep in the closet?
He opted for this arrangement as a way to prioritize his mental health. Matt has been open about dealing with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and believed that a change in his sleep environment could help improve his overall well-being.
how did Abby react to the new sleeping arrangement?
Abby expressed her discontent, noting that she finds it tough and lonely, and she mentioned on their joint “Unplanned Podcast” that she complains about having a queen-sized mattress in what used to be a shared space.
What does the term “sleep divorce” refer to in this context?
the term “sleep divorce” in the article refers to the practice of couples sleeping apart—whether in separate rooms or unconventional spaces—as a practical solution to address sleep disturbances, differing sleep needs, or mental health challenges, without it necessarily indicating marital discord.
What kind of public reaction has the closet sleep setup received?
The public reaction has been mixed. some spectators were shocked and expressed personal discomfort at the idea, while others found the concept of sleeping apart—as a way to improve sleep and mental health—practical and understandable.
Is Matt’s closet sleeping arrangement a permanent change?
No, Matt assures listeners that this arrangement is temporary. He intends to resume sharing the bed with Abby once his mental health shows advancement.
How has Matt personalized the closet space?
Matt transformed the closet into what he calls a “sleep paradise” by setting up a small AC unit, a portable humidifier, and using essential oils to create a comfortable sleep environment.
are option sleeping arrangements common among couples?
Yes, according to a 2023 survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine noted in the article, more than one-third of American couples sleep in separate rooms for reasons such as differing sleep schedules, snoring, or sleep disorders, aiming to improve sleep quality.
How can sleeping apart impact a marriage?
While the idea initially raises concerns, many experts believe that ensuring adequate, uninterrupted sleep can significantly improve mental health. In turn, this can help maintain or even strengthen the marital bond when both partners address their personal needs.
