My 14 year-old daughter used to be a good student, but in the last year, she always seems to be tired, and her grades have dropped considerably. I’m concerned that trouble sleeping might be the root of the problem. The time she falls asleep varies a lot. Some nights, she’s out like a light, and other nights, she tosses and turns for hours before finally getting to sleep. Sometimes, she wakes up several times during the night as well. Could this be a serious problem? What should I do?
At any age, getting a good night’s sleep is important. However, sleep is especially important during your child’s teenage years. The typical adult requires seven to eight hours of restful sleep every night to function best; an adolescent needs about nine. Unfortunately, the average American teenager gets far less than that, so your daughter’s situation is all too common.
We still don’t understand exactly why humans need to sleep, but we do know the harmful effects sleep deprivation has on children, teens, and adults. Not getting enough sleep results in decreased ability to concentrate and learn, impaired decision-making, forgetfulness, depression, and a host of other problems. All of these can have an impact on your daughter’s academic performance.
It can be difficult to discern the cause of a teen’s sleep deprivation, especially during teenage years when varying amounts homework and studying can contribute to an inconsistent sleep schedule. Drinking caffeinated beverages late in the day, watching television, eating or using a computer close to bedtime can all hinder your daughter’s ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. It’s also common for stress caused by the emotional trials and tribulations that come with teenage years to have an impact on sleep, so working with her to help her manage any stress, or seeking professional help if stress is a major concern, can be beneficial.
However, you should also be mindful of signs that your daughter may have a significant sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or insomnia. If you notice that she regularly skips a breath during sleep, has nightmares, sleepwalks, or snores, a physician who specializes in sleep problems is able to perform tests that can help to determine if your daughter has a sleep disorder, and what steps to take next.
Getting through high school is a daunting task for any teenager. Working to help your daughter sleep better, and seeking professional help if necessary, will ensure that she is armed with the good night’s rest necessary for her to be at her best during the day. No amount of coffee, energy shots, or beverages that claim to give you “wings” can compensate for the effects of sleep deprivation.
