Colman Noctor: Lack of sleep is damaging teenagers' mental health

"We must find an engaging way to communicate the importance of sleep that instigates meaningful change in their sleep habits. "

Dr Colman Noctor: "Parents often believe they cannot insist on phones being left outside the bedroom at bedtime, especially with older teens, but perhaps this is necessary. For example, if your teen claims they need their phone for a morning alarm, this is not a viable excuse — a standard alarm clock can be purchased relatively cheaply."

I dread discussing the need for sleep with teenagers in therapy. The mention of the word nearly always triggers a glazed-over expression and withdrawal.   

Most teenagers have heard it all before and can rattle off the standard advice of ‘no screens or caffeinated drinks late at night’ and ‘get plenty of exercise during the day’.  But adhering to the advice is another story.