Late-Night Gaming and Alcohol Are Stealing Men’s Sleep—and Health
Many men are sacrificing sleep for late-night gaming and alcohol, according to a 2022 survey. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that 75% of men stayed up to play online games, while 62% delayed bedtime to drink. Both habits are now linked to serious health risks, including poor sleep quality and long-term health problems.
Online games, especially in the late evening, overstimulate the brain and create a fear of missing out, leading to sleep procrastination. Players often struggle to fall asleep and end up with shorter, fragmented rest. Meanwhile, alcohol may initially make people drowsy but later raises alertness hormones, preventing deep, restful sleep.
The consequences of poor sleep go beyond tiredness. Chronic sleep deprivation weakens cognitive and motor skills, making daily tasks harder. It also raises the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Over time, fragmented sleep has been tied to some of the leading causes of death in men, including cancer, heart attacks, and accidents.
Sleep experts stress the importance of better habits. Cutting back on alcohol and setting earlier limits for online gaming can help. Replacing late-night screen time with relaxing activities, like swimming three or four times a week, may also improve sleep. Even short 20-minute sessions can boost serotonin and support deeper rest.
Good sleep is essential for both body and mind, allowing proper recovery and function. Without it, men face higher risks of illness and reduced performance. Adjusting evening routines—like reducing alcohol and online gaming before bed—could lead to better health and longer life.
