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Sleep is important for the physical and cognitive development of adolescents
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University of Oregon researchers have revealed that sleeping in over the weekend can be crucial to the mental health of teenagers.
According to the study young people between 16 and 24 years old who slept longer over the weekend are less likely to suffer from depression symptoms than those who wake up early. This study further supports the idea that sleep has a major impact on mental health. Researchers found that people who caught up with sleep at the weekend were 41 percent less likely to experience depressive symptoms.
Teenage sleep deprivation
For teenagers, experts recommend closer to ten sleep hours per night. Sleep is crucial for teens, as it supports their physical and cognitive growth. However, sleep is not often given priority.
Teenagers accumulate a lot sleep debt as they juggle their academic, social and even work responsibilities. Even though they may have a busy schedule, it’s difficult to sleep for ten consecutive hours and complete all of their homework.
Why weekends matter
These findings support the growing evidence that sleep has a crucial role to play in adolescents’ mental health. The findings add to the growing evidence that sleep plays a critical role in adolescent mental health.
Researchers analysed data from the 2021–23 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, examining reported weekday and weekend bedtimes, wake-up times and emotional wellbeing. Participants who slept more on weekends reported feeling less sad or depressed each day.
Changes in the body during adolescence
The teenager’s circadian rhythm changes naturally during adolescence. This is a biological phenomenon they cannot control. Science has proven that teenagers sleep between 11pm-8am. However, this coincides with many school start times around the world. Weekends are often the only times they can sleep in accordance with their biological clock.
Experts say that, while consistent sleep is the best goal, allowing teens to catch up at the weekends can be beneficial for their mental health in a time of vulnerability.
