Chinese people becoming increasingly night owls: survey
Sleep problems are rising among young people in China, with many college students staying up late into the night. A recent survey found that around 80% of them go to bed after midnight, while one in four falls asleep only after 2 am. Experts warn that late-night habits are now affecting daily routines, with a third of students waking up after 9 am.
The trend of delayed sleep, often called 'revenge bedtime procrastination', is growing among Chinese youth. Many stay awake despite feeling tired, pushing bedtime later and later. Over 65% of surveyed students reported sleep disturbances at least once or twice a week.
Common symptoms include waking up repeatedly at night, early-morning insomnia, frequent bathroom trips, and snoring. Researchers highlight smartphone use as a major factor—students who spend more time on their phones tend to go to bed later. No specific studies or experts were named in the available data, but the link between screen time and delayed sleep is clear. On a positive note, regular exercise appears to help. Students who stay physically active show a lower risk of insomnia and report better overall sleep quality.
The findings suggest that late-night phone use and irregular sleep schedules are now widespread among Chinese college students. While exercise may improve rest, the growing habit of revenge bedtime procrastination points to deeper lifestyle challenges. Without changes, sleep disorders could become even more common in younger generations.
