Do Teens Get Enough Sleep?

Do teens get enough sleep?

 

It   is well-known that teens are among the largest group for lack of sleep problems, but what causes it? Scientists have proven a lack of sleep affects your ability to learn, can cause increased unhealthy eating and even inappropriate and aggressive behaviour. Because of this, some people have argued that schools should start later, so teens could get their 8 hours sleep, mandatory for them to function. School is a large part of our life, and if it is spent being drowsy and inattentive, then it could impact our lives massively. Especially with schools including even more physical activity early in the morning, sleep is necessary for good grades, but how many teens actually get the right amount?

The National Sleep Foundation surveyed over 500 teenagers, but only 15 percent got 8 and ½ plus hours of sleep.  Many teens nowadays suffer from serious but treatable sleeping disorders, such as insomnia, narcolepsy and apnoea, but even less are actually treated. Lack of sleep reportedly limits your reaction time, makes you become easily distracted, and forgetful. It also heightens the effect of alcohol, and may increase use of caffeine and nicotine.  Some solutions to not being able to fall asleep include not using any electronics for at least an hour before you go to bed, sticking to a consistent sleep pattern and taking short naps instead of long ones.