Women in India Report Greater Sleep Deprivation Than Men: 2026 Global Sleep Survey Women in India are experiencing higher levels of sleep deprivation than men, facing more difficulty falling asleep and greater sleep disruption due to stress and family responsibilities, according to the 2026 Global Sleep Survey conducted by ResMed. The survey gathered responses from 30,000 participants across 13 countries, including 5,000 respondents in India. The findings point to a growing awareness of sleep as a vital component of overall health, while also revealing a persistent gap between recognising its importance and achieving consistent, quality rest. Sleep Awareness Rising, But Quality Lags In India, 44 per cent of respondents ranked sleep among the most important behaviours for living a long and healthy life, placing it alongside diet and exercise. However, more than half (53 per cent) reported getting quality sleep on only four nights a week or fewer, highlighting the disconnect between awareness and actual outcomes. Globally, 90 per cent of respondents acknowledged that regular, good-quality sleep contributes to longevity and better health. Gender Gap in Sleep Health The survey revealed clear differences in sleep experiences between men and women in India: 38 per cent of women reported difficulty falling asleep, compared to 29 per cent of men. Stress and anxiety disrupted sleep for 42 per cent of women, versus 36 per cent of men. Family responsibilities affected 39 per cent of women, compared to 33 per cent of men. These findings suggest that social, emotional and caregiving pressures may disproportionately impact women’s sleep health. Stress and Work Among Top Disruptors Across all respondents in India, stress or anxiety emerged as the leading barrier to consistent sleep (39 per cent), followed by work-related responsibilities (37 per cent) and household duties (31 per cent). The consequences extend beyond tiredness. After a poor night’s sleep: 39 per cent felt more stressed, 35 per cent reported increased irritability, and 30 per cent said they felt more depressed. This underscores the strong connection between sleep quality and mental wellbeing. Impact on Workplace Productivity Sleep deprivation is also affecting professional performance. About 71 per cent of working respondents said insufficient sleep reduces their focus and productivity. Meanwhile, 57 per cent felt that sleep health is not adequately prioritised in workplace culture. Notably, 77 per cent admitted to taking a “snooze day” — calling in sick after a poor night’s sleep. At the same time, 72 per cent said flexible working arrangements help them manage their sleep better, indicating the importance of organisational support in improving sleep outcomes. Healthcare and Technology’s Role Encouragingly, 78 per cent of Indian respondents said they would consult a healthcare provider for persistent sleep issues, and 68 per cent reported having already discussed sleep health with a clinician. However, only 69 per cent recalled being asked about sleep during routine medical check-ups, suggesting room for more proactive screening. Technology is increasingly shaping sleep awareness. Around 75 per cent of Indians said they track their sleep at least occasionally using wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness bands. Among those users, 66 per cent indicated they would seek medical advice if their device flagged a potential health concern. A Growing Public Health Priority Conducted between December 11, 2025, and January 14, 2026, across markets including the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, Korea, Brazil, Poland, Singapore and Mexico, the survey used samples representative of national age and gender distributions. The findings position sleep as an emerging public health priority in India. While awareness of its importance is high, consistent behavioural change remains uneven. Experts suggest that enhanced public education, routine screening, supportive workplace policies and early diagnosis of sleep disorders could help close the gap between recognition and restorative rest.
