Chandigarh: 22nd April, 2025: A new study published in the International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences reveals alarming data about how sleep deprivation is affecting corporate employee's cognitive abilities and overall work performance. The employees, especially of the corporate sector of the country, are facing a sleep crisis, and the consequences are far-reaching.
This research co-authored by Dr. Deepak Thakur (Psychologist and Workspace Wellness Expert), along with Ms. Simmi Bansal (Psychologist and Researcher) on the topic of "Sleepless Employees: The Sleep Crisis Among Indian Corporate Professionals and It's Cognitive Consequences", reveals that more than 60% of corporate employees are struggling with poor-quality of sleep, which is affecting their memory, attention, and decision-making abilities, ultimately causing sleep deprivation.
This study was conducted on employees from high-stress sectors inclusive of IT, finance, and marketing, and it reveals that sleep deprivation is linked to cognitive impairments. These impairments were seen in concentration, problem-solving, and memory retention, all the fundamental skills required to outstand in this competitive world. The first researcher Dr. Thakur emphasizes that, “When employees aren’t getting enough quality sleep, it affects their cognitive functions, such as memory recall and attention span. Which leads to slower decision-making, decreased productivity, and even increased errors at work. It’s a silent productivity killer.”
The study also reveals that stress and overwork are significant contributors to the sleep crisis. With increasing demands and long working hours, employees in high-stress sectors were most affected. The research also highlights that stress levels were directly linked to poor quality of sleep. Ms. Simmi Bansal, provided her insights that, “High stress in demanding sectors is a major factor disrupting sleep patterns. These professionals are caught in a vicious cycle of stress that reduces sleep quality, which in turn leads to more stress and cognitive impairment, further compromising their work performance.”
In order to tackle this prevalent sleep crisis, both the researchers provided several recommendations, inclusive of Sleep Hygiene Education, Flexible Work Schedules and to induce Corporate Wellness Programs. Dr. Thakur also emphasizes that, “Workplaces must acknowledge that sleep is a foundational part of mental and physical health. A well-rested employee is more engaged, productive, and less prone to burnout.”
This recent research is a wake-up Call for Corporate India. The findings of this study are a reminder for organizations to prioritize employee well-being. In this rapidly evolving atmosphere, with high-end competition and work pressure, sleep cannot be sacrificed. Better sleep leads to better cognitive performance, which in turn enhances productivity and reduces the risk of burnout. 
At Last, Ms. Simmi Bansal concludes that, “Addressing sleep deprivation isn’t just a moral responsibility, it’s a smart business strategy. Organizations that invest in the sleep health of their employees will see the benefits in improved performance, retention, and overall company success.”
For further details on the research, the full study can be accessed in the April 2025 edition of the European International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences. [link: https://eijmhs.com/index.php/mhs/article/view/261].