How does sleep deprivation affect the teenager?
Sleep deprivation can impair memory and inhibit creativity, making it difficult for sleep deprived students to learn. Teen struggle to learn to deal with stress and control emotion– sleep deprivation makes it even more difficult. Irritability, lack of self confidence, and mood swings are often common in a teen, but sleep deprivation makes it worse. Depression can result from chronic sleep deprivation. Not enough sleep can endanger their immune system and make them more susceptible to serious illnesses. What Can Parents Do? Monitor your child’s activities. If he has too much on his schedule, have him choose the most important ones and stick to a reasonable schedule that allows time for homework and adequate rest. Talk to your PTA about changing school start time. Many high schools have pushed the starting bell as early as 7:15 am. Some Minnesota schools have moved back start times from 7:20 am to 8:30 am. They are reporting better grades and fewer discipline problems. Sleep Tips For Te
