SLEEP DEPRIVATION AND DRUG ABUSE AMONG TEENS.
The most vulnerable groups to develop substance abuse issues are Teenagers.
Insecurity, peer pressure, the need to feel included, and the temptation to try something new are more prominent than ever in adolescence. These behaviors can lead to substance abuse.
Several studies have shown how sleep deprivation and teen drug abuse are related. An area of research that could reveal some understanding into teen drug abuse.
The Importance of Good Sleep
While we discover the links between sleep deprivation and teen substance abuse, it’s crucial that we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep when it comes to the growth and development of a teenager. Most experts believe eight hours of sleep is needed to sustain good health, energy, and a sharp mind. Due to many extenuating circumstances, teenagers sleep cycles are off. Homework and social media are two reasons why teens losing quality sleep. Only twenty-seven percent of American teenagers get eight or more hours of sleep each night. Promoting and facilitating a healthy sleep program for your teen will not only lead to better academic performance for your teen but also aid in the prevention of dangerous drug abuse.
Why Teens With Sleep Deprivation Are More Likely to Use Drugs
Teens who received six or fewer hours of sleep were three times more likely to use drugs compared to the ones who reported sleeping eight or more hours according to one study.
Sleep deprivation affects the teen’s decision making and short-term memory. It also diminishes their concentration, and short circuits their cognitive functions.
Due to the lack of sleep, the teen is receiving, the brain’s dopamine receptors become blocked. Dopamine is a chemical produced by t
he brain that controls pleasure and reward. This is why teens are more likely to crave such behavior that produces an increase of dopamine, such as drugs.
Drug Abuse makes up for the decrease of dopamine in the brain of a teen that is sleep deprived. Once the teen has experienced the surge of dopamine brought on by the drug use, he or she will most likely crave that pleasure and continue to use drugs recreate the experience.
Ways to Combat Sleep Deprivation Among Teens
-Having school start at 8:30 or later.
-Decreasing the use of cellular phones, social media, and television for teenagers at night.
-To educate the parents, school districts, and athletic directors about the importance of a good night’s sleep (8 or more hours).
-Encourage a manageable class schedule, this will ensure your teen does not become overwhelmed with classes and after-school activities.
If the teen follows these suggestions the AAP hopes the teen will begin to understand the risk of sleep deprivation, thus reducing the possibility of drug use.
Poor sleep in adolescence can lead to poor decisions, drug use to depression. If your teenager is sleep deprived, he or she may be at risk of substance abuse or addiction.
Early intervention is imperative to your teen’s health. Contact Asana Recovery today at 949-438-4504
