12 sleep myths that could be hurting you

By Barkha MathurPublished On May 6, 2025

Think sleep is optional? Think again.

Hustle culture glorifies sleeplessness. Doctors say it’s harming your health.

Myth 1: You can thrive on 4 or 5 hours of sleep

Wrong. Most adults need 7–9 hours. Short sleep wrecks your focus, memory, and immunity—whether you feel it or not.

Myth 2: Sleeping in on weekends fixes lost sleep

Wrong. You can’t repay sleep debt. Inconsistent sleep throws off your body clock and worsens fatigue and mood.

Myth 3: If you’re not sleepy, you’re well-rested

Wrong. Sleep deprivation can feel normalised. You may not feel tired, but your brain and body are still paying the price.

Myth 4: A quick nap can replace a full night’s sleep

Wrong. Naps don’t equal deep sleep. Your brain needs full sleep cycles—especially REM—for recovery and memory.

Myth 5: Older adults need less sleep

Wrong. They still need 7–8 hours. Age doesn’t cut your need for quality rest—it just makes it harder to get.

Myth 6: One bad night of sleep won’t hurt

Wrong. It messes with your mind and immunity. Even one poor night can impair focus, mood, and your body’s defences.

Myth 7: Alcohol helps you sleep better

Wrong. It disrupts deep sleep. It might knock you out fast—but it ruins rest and worsens sleep apnoea.

Myth 8: Screens help you relax before bed

Wrong. Blue light delays sleep. Phones and TVs suppress melatonin. Try a wind-down ritual instead.

Myth 9: Snoring is just annoying

Wrong. It could be sleep apnoea. Loud, frequent snoring is a medical red flag—linked to heart disease and stroke.

Myth 10: Sleeping pills are safe long-term

Wrong. They’re for short-term use only. Long-term use can hurt memory, deepen sleep issues, and create dependence.

Myth 11: More sleep = better sleep

Wrong. Quality beats quantity. Oversleeping may signal deeper issues. Good sleep means the right cycles.

Myth 12: Late-night workouts help you sleep

Wrong. xercise boosts sleep—but not right before bed. Stop intense workouts at least 2–3 hours before lights out.

“Fixing these myths can change your energy, mood, and longevity.”

- Dr Nandani Gulati, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj With insights from Dr Vikas Mittal, Director – Pulmonologist, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi

Sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s life-saving.

Read the full myth-busting article on Business Standard.