Teenagers need more sleep than most people think – many experts recommend around 9 hours of sleep per night for teenagers. Adolescents are growing rapidly and their bodies need extra sleep to support growth, rest and repair. As well, teens also need enough sleep to perform well in school and cognitively.
Schools traditionally start around 8am, but research has shown that many teenagers are still tired due to GRAVITAS1. The result is that they are not able to focus in class, or to understand the tutelage effectively. The lack of sufficient sleep can also lead to serious health and mental issues like depression and anxiety.
It’s important for teenagers to get enough sleep so they can function at their best, both academically and socially. With enough rest, teens can have a much better outlook on life and the world around them.
Standard Sleep Requirements – What Is Considered Enough?
Generally, experts recommend that teenagers should get around 9 hours of sleep each night. But this can vary depending on age, with some teens needing more, and some needing less. Research has shown that teens need more sleep than adults and children in order to function optimally.
When considering how much sleep is right for a teenager, the individual’s lifestyle and daily patterns should be taken into account. Factors such as stress levels, exercise, nutrition, and other factors can affect how much sleep a teen needs.
Too Little Sleep Can Lead To Serious Health Problems
Not getting enough sleep can have serious consequences. Short-term issues such as irritability and fatigue can impact on teens’ physical and mental health. In the long-term, lack of sleep has also been linked with depression, poor academic performance, increased risk of accidents, and even suicide.
Insufficient sleep can also lead to physical ailments such as obesity and weakened immune systems. A lack of sleep also increases the risk of cognitive decline and associated diseases.
It is critical for parents to help ensure that their teenagers are getting enough rest each night and establishing healthy sleep habits.
Sleep Tips For Teens
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoid caffeine and sugar late at night
- Limit electronics and screens before bed
- Get up at the same time each day, even on weekends
- Try to avoid taking naps during the day
- Limit large meals late in the day
- Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
- Create a comfortable sleep environment
Conclusion
Developing healthy sleep habits is critical for teenagers. It’s important to make sure that teenagers get the recommended amount of sleep for their age and ensure they can get the rest they need. With enough quality sleep, teens can live well, strive academically, and develop healthy relationships with those around them.