Many teenagers are not getting optimal sleep on school nights, largely due to overuse of mobile phones, video games and the internet.
A recent study shows that more than 70% of South Australia’s adolescents are deprived of the recommended amount of sleep on weekdays, with many bedtimes delayed due to excessive media use.
The survey of more than 12,000 South Australian high school students found that 10% of the teens were addicted to electronic media.
Sleep deprivation can have significant consequences on mental and general health, including learning and concentration problems that can negatively affect teenagers’ schooling.
Researchers recommend the development of public health guidelines to educate teens, parents and schools on responsible media use.
Read more at The University of Adelaide