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For teenagers, sleep plays a critical role in staying healthy, feeling happy, maintaining good grades, and doing well in sports. But sleep doesn\u2019t come easily for some teens. For those who struggle, it\u2019s important to look at their electronic use. An increased amount of screen time throughout the day has been linked to insomnia and symptoms of depression in adolescents. This can include social messaging, web surfing, watching TV, and gaming, in addition to using the internet for schoolwork. The presence of electronic devices in teenagers\u2019 lives isn\u2019t going anywhere, anytime soon, so it\u2019s important to understand its effects on sleep and how to find a better balance.<\/p>\n
Electronic devices emit an artificial blue light that can suppress the release of the body\u2019s sleep-inducing hormone, melatonin. In turn, this can interfere with the body\u2019s natural internal clock that signals when it\u2019s time to sleep and wake up. The more time teens spend in front of an electronic device, especially in the evening, the greater the delay in the release of melatonin, making sleep a challenge. They may experience problems falling asleep as well as difficulty staying asleep. As a result, these teens sleep fewer overall hours; over time, that sleep deprivation can lead to symptoms of depression.<\/p>\n
Limiting overall daily screen time can help improve sleep issues, but most importantly, restricting use right before bed can play a key role in helping teens fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality. Consider setting a digital curfew one to two hours before bedtime (the earlier, the better). Create a sleep-positive bedroom environment by encouraging teens to read before bed rather than texting to wind down. Some parents institute a tech-free bedroom policy\u2014no TV, computer, or smart phone allowed in the sleeping space, at least during the night.<\/p>\n
There are many benefits to today\u2019s tech-driven world: Access to more information, the ability to connect with others in an emergency, and a chance to make friends with new people in new places. Managing the amount of time adolescents spend plugged into their electronic devices helps give them the benefits without as many drawbacks, especially when it comes to sleep.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For teenagers, sleep plays a critical role in staying healthy, feeling happy, maintaining good grades, and doing well in sports. But sleep doesn\u2019t come easily for some teens. For those who struggle, it\u2019s important to look at their electronic use. … Continue reading