This is why teenagers are so tired

Teenagers seem to be tired all the time. This common observation for parents and teachers has scientifically proven foundations. In France, one in four adolescents sleeps less than 7 hours per night even though they need nearly 9.5 hours to function well. This sleep deficit is not without consequences: memory problems, concentration problems, lack of motivation, risk of accidents… To understand this silent epidemic, let’s dive into the world of young people’s sleep.

Multifactorial causes of fatigue in adolescents

A biological clock shifted

Adolescents’ hormonal rhythm changes as they grow older. These physiological changes shift their internal clock and tend to delay bedtime and getting up. A situation that is often unsuitable for school requirements early in the morning.

An environment conducive to awakening

A teenager’s bedroom is often loaded with stimuli: computer, cell phone, television, etc. So many devices that delay bedtime and disrupt sleep.

From a medical point of view, These factors combined can lead to chronic sleep debt which can lead to more serious problems such as depression or behavioral disorders. Now let’s discuss in more detail the vital importance of sleep for adolescents.

The essential role of sleep in the balance of young people

Necessary rest time for the brain

During sleep, the brain regenerates and consolidates the information acquired during the day. A lack of sleep disrupts these processes and can lead to problems with memory and concentration.

A link between sleep and mental health

Research has shown that chronic lack of sleep can increase the risk of depression in adolescents. Good sleep is therefore essential for their mental balance.

This importance of sleep is sometimes undermined by the growing influence of new technologies.

The impact of new technologies on the sleep-wake rhythm

The omnipresence of screens

According to a study carried out in France in 2018, a large proportion of adolescents use a smartphone or computer just before going to bed. However, the blue light emitted by these devices stimulates wakefulness and delays falling asleep.

The harmful role of social networks

Always connected, teens may feel social pressure to stay up later so as not to miss anything. This hyperconnection can thus disrupt their sleep-wake cycle.

This observation leads us to consider the importance of an adapted timetable for these tired students.

The importance of a suitable timetable for tired students

Unnatural school hours

The hormonal rhythm of adolescents tends to delay bedtime, which is at odds with early morning school schedules. Finding a compromise between these constraints can be a solution to improve their quality of sleep.

The need to rethink the school day

To reduce the sleep deficit in teenagers, it would be wise to rethink the course of their day. For example, starting the day later and reducing the volume of work at home are possible options.

Another area for improvement lies in the management of smartphone use.

Manage smartphone use to sleep better

Limit exposure to screens before bed

It is recommended to avoid all screen use at least one hour before bedtime. This helps prepare the brain for sleep and improves the quality of falling asleep.

Adopt a responsible attitude towards technology

Encouraging adolescents to adopt responsible use of smartphones and social networks can help prevent problems related to lack of sleep.

But faced with these challenges, we must also ensure that we prevent chronic fatigue syndrome in adolescents.

Understanding and preventing chronic fatigue syndrome in adolescents

Defining chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by persistent, disabling fatigue that does not improve with rest. In adolescents, it can seriously affect their quality of life.

Implement preventive measures

To avoid the onset of this syndrome, it is crucial to adopt good sleep habits from adolescence: respect a regular rhythm, limit exposure to screens before bedtime, ensure an environment conducive to sleep, etc.

To finish this exploration of the sleepy world of adolescents, let us remember that the key to successful sleep lies in a set of concrete actions: respecting your biological clock, creating an environment favorable to rest, reducing exposure to screens before bedtime and adopt a responsible attitude towards technology. Remember, every hour counts to ensure a teenager is well-rested and ready to tackle their busy days.