Sleep Disorders

Sleep Disorders

While scientists don't understand everything about the importance of sleep, it clearly influences how you feel when you are awake. Those who have trouble sleeping because of a sleep disorder can have difficulty dealing with school, work and relationships when awake.

Many adolescents actually have a common sleep disorder called a delayed sleep phase syndrome. The disorder, which is caused by changes in the body's internal clock associated with puberty, means it is normal to be a "night owl" at just about the time your family wants to go to sleep. It also means you want to sleep later in the morning. It is difficult to change this pattern, so teens end up sleep-deprived because school starts early, before the required 9 to 9½ hours of sleep have occurred.

More serious sleep disorders include sleep apnea, in which someone temporarily stops breathing during sleep, or chronic insomnia, in which someone regularly has difficulty falling asleep. The Web links included on this page offer more information about these and other problems. If you think you suffer from one of these disorders, please see your doctor.

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Getting a Good Night’s Sleep


Everyone has problems sleeping at times, especially during adolescence. Below are some tips to increase your chances of sleeping better.
Eliminate caffeine (or foods that have caffeine, such as chocolate).

Set a regular sleep schedule and stick with it, even on weekends

Avoid exercise after dinner.

Wear comfortable clothes or pajamas to bed.

Make sure your room is not too hot or too cold.

Avoid stimulating TV, music or computer time before bed.

Use meditation or relaxation techniques.

Try the old standby: counting sheep – in other words, activities that are repetitive and lack stimulation.
However, if you are still tired aftering trying suggestions and a lack of sleep is hurting your daily school work or relationships, please see your doctor.