Sleep is important for everyone, but it can be especially hard for teenagers. They have lots of demands on their time and are often under pressure to do well in school. They are also more likely to have sleep problems that affect their academic performance, emotional health and relationships.
Teenagers need between 9 and 10 hours of sleep each night to function at their best. Scientific research has shown that a lack of adequate sleep can cause serious medical problems such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
It is also important for teens to get plenty of exercise. Daily exercise can help them sleep better by boosting their energy levels and helping them to fall asleep. But avoid intense exercise in the evening because it can make it harder for them to sleep.
Changes in the biological clock during adolescence can make it more difficult for teenagers to fall asleep and stay asleep. They are more likely to sleep later at night and wake up later in the morning, a condition known as delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSS).
Many teenagers have trouble falling asleep, even after going to bed at the recommended time. This is known as insomnia, and it can be a sign of another disorder called narcolepsy.
Narcolepsy is a serious condition that can happen at any age but usually appears in teens. It causes sudden loss of muscle control and tremors during the day and may be accompanied by vivid dreams.
It can also cause teens to sleepwalk, which can be dangerous and even lead to death. They are most at risk if they have a fever or are under a lot of stress.
They should never use computers or electronic devices before they go to bed, as they will delay the release of the sleep hormone melatonin. The blue light from phones and other screens can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
Teens need to set up a regular bedtime and wake up time every day. This can be challenging for parents and teens alike, but it’s essential to help them develop a routine that will ensure they get enough sleep.
The first step in helping your teen develop healthy sleep habits is to understand why they are having sleep issues. They may be struggling with a number of things such as stress or anxiety and need to learn strategies for managing these problems. You can encourage them to talk with a doctor, counsellor or psychologist about their problems.
Explain to your teen that sleeping when a teen properly will help them feel better and perform better in school. If they continue to have sleep problems, talk to them about the impact it is having on their wellbeing and relationships.
Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth for your child’s physical, intellectual and emotional development. They are facing new challenges and changes at school, home and with their friends. The best thing you can do to help them is to provide them with the sleep they need, so they can thrive and enjoy their adolescence fully.