NPR News, Classical and Music of the Delta
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

The Importance of Getting Enough: Teens and Sleep

Jon Huss
/
Flickr.com

Sleep is one of the most important 'fuels' our body needs. Dr. Lynn Clark, executive director of the Children's Coalition of Northeast Louisiana, says that engaging with teens about how to get a better hold on their somatic health can positively impact mental and physical health. 

Talking to Your Teens About Sleep

When discussing the importance of somatic health, explain why sleep is important. Sleep is food for the brain and refreshes the brain when it receives a full 8-10 hours of sleep. In order to grow and process stressors that plague the average middle-schooler and high-schooler, brains need more time to rejuvenate and impr0ve physical and mental health. 

Sleep-deprived driving is the same as drunk-driving.

Lack of Sleep and Consequences

Dr. Clark says sleep-deprived driving is the same as drunk driving. Combatting lack of sleep can involve talking to your teen about managing their environment, being smarter about cellphone usage and, cutting caffeine usage after 4 p.m. 

On the Suspicion of Sleep Disorders

If you think your child is struggling with a sleep disorder, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician. Sleep disorders are not behavioral, but medical and are treatable. Time to Talk is produced with the Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana and BayouLife Magazine.