Mandatory Bedtimes Reduce Risk of Teen Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

July 07, 2009

According to a recent study at the Columbia University Medical Center, you may be able to reduce your teen's risk of depression and suicidal thoughts by mandating a nightly bedtime. However, that bedtime should be early enough to allow for at least 9 hours of sleep.

Of the 15,659 adolescents participating in the study, 7.3% reported symptoms of depression. 13% reported suicidal thoughts. Participants with parent-mandated bedtimes of 10 p.m. or earlier were 25% less likely to be depressed than their peers with parent-mandated bedtimes that were not until midnight or later. They were 20% less likely to have suicidal thoughts.

Yet today's teens are extraordinarily busy; ensuring 9 hours of sleep each night can be difficult. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has a website devoted to practical tips for helping your teen get enough sleep.