New study suggests link between sleep & depression in teens
Your teenager’s sunny disposition in summer might be linked to more than just a break from classes. Additional hours of sleep could be aiding your teen’s newfound happiness.
A study led by the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School recently found that teens who were “excessively sleepy” during school were three times more likely to be depressed than their peers with healthy sleep schedules.
With performance pressure at school as well as activities outside of class, many teens are trading quality time with their pillow for time at their desk.
Of the teens categorized as excessively sleepy, thirty percent showed strong signs of depression and another thirty two percent showed moderate depression symptoms.
Once school resumes, work with your teenager to establish a healthy sleep schedule.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends a minimum of nine hours of sleep at night for high school students. Depressed students in the survey slept an average of about six hours throughout the week and eight hours on the weekend.
Cut down on caffeine and technology use before bedtime. The glowing light from cell phone, computer and television screens can suppress melatonin, a hormone that aids in sleep.
Healthy sleep patterns are not just for teenagers. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends adults sleep an average of seven to eight hours per night.
Depression is a common symptom of a sleep disorder. If your sleep troubles or the sleep troubles of your teenager persist, consider a sleep consultation with The Atlanta Sleep Medicine Clinic. Call (678) 651-2032 to make your appointment today with a board certified sleep specialist.
Have you noticed a change in your teen’s sleep pattern or mood during summer break? Are you happier on weekends or days you have the opportunity to sleep in? Let us know in a comment!
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