How many hours sleep do you need to function effectively?

[NotAllThere]

New Scientist article.

When I was a short course of cortisone, I found I was sleeping 5 hours a day, was full of energy, and able to work very effectively.

However, off drugs, I need about 7 hours.

[BoredBloke]

I've been doing 6 hours for the past few weeks and feel ok.

[Moscow Mule]

I function for about 3-4 weeks on 6-7 hours, then I'll need a "catch-up" at the weekend.

This can last anywhere from 12-16 hours. It's lovely when I get that.

[DiscoStu]

I can cope on 6, but I'm pretty crap towards the end of the day. Ideal is about 8.5 hours.

[Old Greg]

Ideal is about 14. Currently getting about 4. Still, just had a little nap so a bit better now.

[Ravello]

Seem to get by during the week on about 7-7.5 could easily sleep for 10 though.

[ratewhore]

I'm just being realistic - I'm a lazy bastard.

[Advocate]

If I'm left to sleep naturally i wake up around 4pm/5pm and go to sleep at 9am; this very rarely happens!

I guess I need about 7-8 hours but I'll happily accept more if offered!

[DS23]

kids make you realise your previous estimate was wrong

[jim2406]

5 hours is fine

this isn't a show of 'i dont need sleep' bravado on my part but due to two major medical problems (nerve damage in leg, then reconstruction of shoulder) i have found myself waking up every 10 minutes whenever i roll over, and sleeping has been very awkward.

so i've got used to only going to bed when i'm so tired i can't keep my eyes open, the slightest thing wakes me up, and sleep is uncomfortable and a bit rubbish.

as a result i can cope on a lot less. i'd like more though!