A new study from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health reveals that today's teenagers are sleeping less than ever before, with record-low sleep levels across all age groups.
Declining Sleep Trends
The findings, published in Pediatrics, show a consistent decline in sleep over the past decades. Only 22% of older adolescents reported sleeping at least seven hours each night, the lowest figure ever recorded.
Barriers to Sleep
Lead author Rachel Widome noted that while some barriers like homework and social pressures have existed for generations, new challenges have emerged. "Increasingly ever-present screens and social media, as well as recent society-wide stressors such as the pandemic, social unrest, and militarized policing, are robbing teens of sleep," she said.
Disparities in Sleep
The study also found growing gaps in sleep outcomes. Black and Latino teens, as well as adolescents whose parents have lower education levels, are increasingly less likely to get adequate sleep compared to other groups.
Impact of Sleep Loss
Insufficient sleep contributes to everyday exhaustion and impaired functioning, and is linked to mental health problems, academic struggles, and chronic illnesses later in life. Research from Aim Ideas Lab found that roughly two-thirds of California teens reported burnout and anxiety, with about a quarter of students feeling they have only enough time for basic needs two days a week or less.
Potential Solutions
Researchers suggest delaying high school start times to 8:30 a.m. or later to align with adolescent circadian biology. "A nation of sleep-deprived adolescents is not inevitable," Widome said. "We should embrace a culture of sleep, where sleep is valued and we commit to policies that promote healthy sleep for everyone."
Studies have shown that teens who go to bed earlier and sleep longer tend to have sharper mental skills and score better on cognitive tests.
