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.
