Mental Health & Wellbeing

The teenage years are a formative period. The brain and body experience significant development, and the transition to adulthood brings important changes that affect emotions, personality, social and family life, and academics.

Sleep is essential during this time, working behind the scenes to allow teens to be at their best. Unfortunately, research indicates that many teens get far less sleep than they need. There are numerous factors that may contribute to poor sleep hygiene for young people, including delayed sleep schedules, time pressure, the use of electronic devices, disordered sleep patterns and mental health concerns. 

Through School TV, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg provides an insight into the challenges that are often encountered by young people with poor sleep habits. Here he examines a number of factors that contribute to poor sleep hygiene and some guidance for young people and their parents to aid in improving poor sleep habits that are having a profound impact on their wellbeing.

Watching some of the School TV clips regarding sleep may provide a good basis for a conversation for you and your young person regarding what works well for them and perhaps some opportunities to make some adjustments to their sleep routine.

Rachel Smith | School Counsellor