Benefits of teenagers sleeping in on the weekend

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Norton Children’s Hospital conducted a study on whether letting your teenager sleep in on the weekends can be beneficial.

The study shows teens who sleep in have a 41% lower risk of depressive symptoms. 

Those in their teenage years tend to have their natural melatonin released later than adults, allowing them to stay up a little longer and sleeping in when possible can improve their mental health. 

Experts also added that teens can sleep in for too long, disrupting their school sleep schedule so finding a healthy balance is also important.

“So I think it is kind of trying to regulate some of that weekend sleep. Allowing them to sleep in a little bit is healthy and normal,” said Dr. Emily Singer, Norton Children’s Neurologist, Sleep Medicine Specialist.

Singer also talked about the risks of teens staying up too late and sleeping too long. 

“If they’re sleeping in till 2 to 3 p.m. and then having a lot of trouble falling asleep that Sunday night to get ready for school on Monday, you might need to think about adjusting that time,” she added. 

Experts also say limiting screen time at least an hour before bed can help teens practice a healthy sleep schedule.

For more information visit nortonchildrens.com.