The connection between sleep and mental health
Getting enough sleep is strongly linked to good mental health. When we don’t have enough sleep, our energy levels are depleted and our brains do not function properly. Sleep deprivation can cause mood changes such as increased irritability and feelings of anxiety or depression. Without sufficient sleep, we can experience heightened reactivity, and may struggle to interact with others. It is much more difficult to cope with stress without sufficient sleep, which is why sleep is essential to building resilience.
Is your child getting enough sleep?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the amount of sleep recommended by age group are the following:
| Age |
Recommended hours of sleep per day |
|
0-3 months
|
14-17 hours (National Sleep Foundation)
|
|
4-12 months
|
12-16 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
|
|
1-2 years
|
11-14 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
|
|
3-5 years
|
10-13 hours per 24 hours (including naps)
|
|
6-12 years
|
9-12 hours per 24 hours
|
|
13-18 years
|
8-10 hours per 24 hours
|
|
18-60 years
|
7 or more hours per night
|
|
61-65 years
|
7-9 hours
|
Help your family sleep better
If your child or teen struggles with sleep, there are simple changes you can make to your everyday routine to aide sleep. If they continue to have trouble sleeping, speak to their doctor. There are therapies for insomnia that are non-medication treatments that have been helpful for many people.
