Optimising sleep in adolescents: The challenges

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adolescence is a stage of significant transition as children develop into young adults. Optimal sleep is crucial during this period to ensure physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. However, it is well recognised that insufficient quality and quantity of sleep is common among adolescents worldwide. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to provide general practitioners with an overview of the key issues encountered in adolescent patients relating to sleep and summarises approaches to assessment and evidence-based management of sleep problems in this population. DISCUSSION: This review highlights the physiological changes that affect sleep during adolescence and how other factors, including unhealthy sleep behaviours, influence these. It discusses the importance of healthy sleep and the consequences of sleep disturbance in adolescents. Management strategies are outlined, focusing on the key common issues that affect sleep in the teenage years, and guidance on when to consider co-management with specialist care is provided.