Not getting snooze makes our teenagers depressed
Teenagers are suffering from depression due to lack of sleep, according to a recent study. The research found that the early start times of schools combined with the natural biological changes during adolescence are resulting in tired and mentally unwell young people.
It is well known that teenagers experience a shift in their sleep patterns during puberty, causing them to have a later bedtime and a greater need for sleep. However, many schools continue to start classes early in the morning, forcing students to wake up and be alert before their bodies are ready.
A number of studies have shown that starting school later can have a positive impact on students’ academic performance and overall well-being. In fact, countries like France have already implemented later start times with successful results.
One Swedish school, Smedshagsskolan in Hässelby, decided to experiment with a later start time of 9 o’clock and quickly saw improvements in student performance and attendance. This demonstrates that change is possible and can yield positive outcomes.
However, despite the evidence and success stories, starting school later is not a priority for many politicians or school principals. This may be due to the dominance of “morning people” in positions of power who fail to understand the struggles of those who are naturally inclined to be more awake and alert in the late hours.
These early risers set the agendas and make decisions that affect the rest of the population, often neglecting the needs of teenagers who require more sleep in order to function optimally. This creates a dictatorship of the morning people and reinforces the notion that early mornings are superior.
It is time for a cultural revolution, one that addresses the importance of sleep and recognizes the unique sleep patterns of teenagers. The next generation must rebel against the traditional system and advocate for later start times, ensuring their mental and physical well-being.
So, to all the teenagers out there, stay in bed and take that extra snooze. Demand a system that values your health and sleep needs. It’s time to prioritize the well-being of our young people.