How Much Sleep Do Teenagers Need?

Teenagers are stereotypically known for being tired and grouchy in the mornings – but research suggests there is a scientific reason behind this.

According to sleep experts, teens experience a natural shift in their sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm, making it harder for them to fall asleep before 11:00 PM. As teenagers’ brains aren’t fully developed, getting enough sleep is essential for their cognitive development. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, teenagers aged 13-18 should sleep for 8-10 hours a night. The problem is, not many are.

A Youth Risk Behaviour Survey found that 72.7% of teenagers reported getting less than eight hours of sleep per night on school nights. Not only does this impede learning in the classroom, it can put teens at a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, injuries, poor mental health, and problems with attention and behaviour.

If you or someone in your family are struggling to get enough sleep, speak to your doctor about ways you can improve your sleep hygiene. Try starting with the 10 commandments of sleep hygiene here:

https://www.thecpapclinic.com.au/…/the-10-commandments…