What Is a 'Sleep Divorce' and Why Is This New Jersey Couple Getting One?

One New Jersey couple is getting a divorce — but not the kind you might expect. Liz and Rich Alterman have been happily married for almost 20 years; they have three children and are now on the brink of getting “sleep divorced.”

“Rich has always been a snorer, but over the last few years, it has gotten so much worse,” Liz told Inside Edition. "I liken it to excavation equipment." 

The couple has tried everything from breathing strips and surgery, and nothing worked. Now with their sleep divorce, they're splitting up into separate rooms for bedtime.

After he had gotten used to sleeping on the couch,Rich will now get his own bed.

Dr. Nina Radcliff says a sleep divorce could be necessary for your health. She knows couples may be reluctant to announce their new sleep status.

"A sleep divorce could be very healthy for a relationship, it is good for your mental and physical health," she told Inside Edition. "Just because you don't sleep with your partner does not mean you will lose that intimacy, it is all about finding a healthy balance." 

RELATED STORIES