Whether they’re just entering puberty or already in their teens, most teens face some sort of sleep challenge. Many of these challenges come from a biological shift during puberty that delays their body’s circadian rhythm, which makes it harder for them to get the recommended amount of sleep each night.
Getting enough sleep is crucial for teens’ health and performance in school. Studies have shown that teenagers who don’t get enough sleep can be more susceptible to physical and mental illnesses, including obesity, depression, and anxiety.
Teenagers are often busy with homework, extracurricular activities and part-time jobs. They may also be under a lot of stress from friends or family members, which can disrupt their sleep.
If they are struggling with getting a good night’s sleep, consider putting them on a healthy sleep plan. This will help them set consistent bedtimes, eat healthy foods and develop positive sleep habits.
Schedule a consultation to help you find out what’s keeping your teen from getting the sleep they need!
A sleeping expert for teen expert can help you identify the causes of your teen’s sleep problems and provide a personalized treatment plan. They can also help you identify underlying medical issues that may be affecting their ability to sleep.
Lifestyle factors that can affect a teen’s sleep include late-night eating, caffeine, and alcohol use. They can also be impacted by the sleep environment in their homes, such as how quiet or bright their bedroom is.
The amount of time it takes your teen to fall asleep is another factor that can impact their sleep quality and duration. They’re likely to have a hard time falling asleep when they are stressed or anxious, so try to create a more relaxing environment in their room by using soft lighting and other soothing elements.
Avoid bright light exposure in their bedrooms before bedtime, as it suppresses melatonin production, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Electronic devices can also interfere with sleep, so make sure your teen’s room is dark and free of electronics.
Be sure to keep your teen’s room at a comfortable temperature and allow them to unwind before bedtime with activities that relax them, such as reading or listening to music. Be sure they have a comfortable mattress, pillows, and blankets.
Encourage your teen to take regular sleep breaks during the day to reduce stress and tension. They should also go for a walk after lunch and avoid drinking any caffeinated beverages before going to sleep at night.
It’s also a good idea to limit screen time in their bedrooms during the day. The blue light emitted from most screens can inhibit the brain’s production of melatonin, which is necessary for sleep.
If they are struggling to get enough sleep, a sleeping expert can help them develop a healthy sleep routine and learn effective strategies for getting a restful night’s sleep. They can also teach them how to cope with their emotions and manage stress.