Ever been judged for sleeping “too much”? In India, that experience is surprisingly common across households. As conversations around health evolve, sleep patterns—especially among Gen Z—are drawing increasing attention from families, psychologists and social observers.A recent public conversation brought this issue into the spotlight. When Alia Bhatt mentioned needing eight to nine hours of sleep during an interaction with Sadhguru, she was questioned about “losing time”.The exchange resonated widely, reflecting how even basic health habits can be scrutinised.Gen Z sleep habits under fireHealth experts recommend that teenagers and young adults get around 7–9 hours of sleep each night. Yet, many in Gen Z struggle to meet this benchmark. Late-night screen use, social media engagement and academic pressure often push bedtimes past midnight, sometimes even as late as 2 a.m. This naturally leads to waking up later in the day, with some young people sleeping until late morning or even noon.While such patterns are frequently dismissed as laziness, psychologists argue that the reality is more nuanced.Adolescence brings biological shifts in the body’s internal clock, making it easier to stay awake late and harder to wake up early.At least for Gen Z, sleep is not a sign of laziness, but a biological necessity.Sleep shamingWhen combined with digital habits and irregular schedules, this creates a cycle that may appear unproductive but is often beyond conscious control.In many Indian households, reactions vary. Some parents allow flexible sleep routines, especially during holidays or after exams, viewing it as necessary recovery. Others see it as a sign of declining discipline, reflecting a broader cultural belief that early rising is linked to success.This mindset is deeply rooted. Traditionally, Indian society has associated waking up early with productivity and moral discipline.As a result, sleeping late—or even taking naps—can attract criticism. The rise of “sleep shaming” highlights how rest is often misunderstood in a culture that glorifies constant activity.What experts sayExperts say this pressure stems from multiple factors: generational values rooted in hard work and sacrifice, social comparison, and a tendency to equate busyness with worth. For older generations who grew up with limited comforts, rest may appear indulgent rather than essential.What science saysHowever, science tells a different story. Sleep plays a crucial role in brain function, emotional regulation, immunity and overall productivity. Poor sleep or irregular schedules can negatively affect concentration, mood and long-term health. Reduced exposure to natural daylight from waking up late can also disrupt mental well-being.Cost of ignoring sleep needs can be significantChronic sleep deprivation has been linked to anxiety, burnout, weakened immunity and even cardiovascular risks. Ironically, the very culture that discourages rest may be contributing to reduced efficiency and well-being.Importantly, there is no universal sleep rule. While some individuals function well on seven hours, others require eight or more. Teenagers, in particular, naturally follow later sleep cycles, and factors like stress, workload and lifestyle further influence rest needs.As modern life becomes more demanding—with long commutes, digital overload and increasing competition—experts argue that attitudes toward sleep must change. Flexible work and study environments are already challenging rigid routines, making space for healthier habits.