New Study Reveals Sleep Struggles Among Delhi Teens
A new study by Sir Gangaram Hospital and the National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC) has found that one in five teenagers in Delhi suffers from clinical sleep deprivation meaning they are not getting enough sleep to support their health and daily functioning.
The research, which included over 1,500 students aged 12 to 18 from nine schools in central Delhi, highlights a growing concern about the sleep and mental health of adolescents in the city.
60% of Teens Showing Signs of Depression
Even more alarming, about 60% of the students surveyed showed symptoms of depression. Doctors say this high rate is linked to poor sleep habits, increased screen time, and academic stress.
Sleep Directly Affects School Performance
According to the study, students who slept well scored better academically. Those who were sleep-deprived had an average score of 64%, compared to 67% in well-rested students. Additionally, nearly 66% reported experiencing mild to moderate difficulties with memory, focus, and concentration.
Dr. Latika Bhalla, a senior paediatrician involved in the study, explained that sleep is essential for learning, emotional balance, and brain development. Lack of sleep can lead to poor grades, mood swings, and long-term mental health problems.
Why Are Teens Not Sleeping Enough?
Experts say the main reasons include:
- Excessive screen use, especially late at night
- Academic pressure and irregular routines
- Early school start times that don’t match natural teen sleep patterns
Dr. Aashima Dabas, a paediatrics professor, added that binge-watching shows and using phones late at night disrupt the body’s internal clock, making it harder for teens to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Long-Term Health Risks
Sleep issues in teens can lead to serious problems in adulthood, including chronic insomnia, depression, anxiety, and reduced brain function. Dr. Sanjay Manchanda, head of sleep medicine at Sir Gangaram Hospital, stressed, “Not thinking of sleep as essential is the biggest disorder.”
What Can Be Done
To improve teen sleep health, the researchers have suggested several steps:
In Schools:
- Train teachers and school counsellors to spot sleep issues and provide early help
- Start school later in the morning, matching teen sleep patterns
- Include sleep health education in NCERT school textbooks
- Display Tele-MANAS mental health helpline in schools
At Home and in the Community:
- Encourage screen curfews and digital detox routines
- Promote daily physical activity through programs like Khelo India
- Train healthcare staff at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in basic sleep counselling
Teachers can also help by noticing signs of daytime sleepiness, such as students dozing in class, poor grades, or changes in behaviour and share these observations during parent-teacher meetings. A “red flag” section can be added to student reports to highlight serious concerns.
Conclusion
India currently lacks a national programme focused on sleep health for teenagers. The researchers hope this study will spark awareness and lead to policy changes that support better sleep and mental health for students across the country.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
