Negative thoughts can lead to sleep deprivation in teens: Study

Struggling with sleep has become an issue for almost everyone belonging to different age groups. While it has never been a good sign, it is alarmingly increasing among youth as well. International studies indicate how depression can affect 3 to 8 percent of teenagers. It might reoccur again, but in much sever form and hence require effective treatment. Amid the condition, an online study confirmed a remarkable link between negative thoughts and delayed sleep.

The research was conducted by a group of experts from Flinders University in Australia suggest anxiety and poor sleep can lead to mental problems among adolescents aged between 14 to 20 years.

The study included about 400 teenagers to find the root cause of delayed sleep at a young age. Later, the result of the experiment was published in the journal Sleep Health confirming the straight effect of overthinking or anxiety with sleep deprivation.

According to the researchers, repetitive negative thoughts can create an impact on young minds way faster than adults. Sleeplessness along with depression and anxious thoughts can result in severe medical problems. It can affect both mental and physical health, and hence, requires treatment at the earliest.

In teens, depression can cause a lack of concentration, fatigue, inactivity, difficulties in communicating with others and suicidal thoughts, the researcher added. They also reflected the importance of preventing and treating mental health conditions at such a tender age.

To ensure sound sleeping pattern parents must encourage regular bedtime, limited usage of gadgets before sleep, minimizing late-night study routines and breaks from hectic lifestyles.

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