While delivering a report on sleep deficiency in the nation’s capital on Monday, Dr. (Prof.) V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, stated that a quarter of our schoolchildren do not get enough sleep, which raises their risk of mental and physical health problems.
The National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC), which is part of the Ministry of Health, and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital led the study, which examined the prevalence of sleep deprivation and its effects on cognitive abilities in adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18.
Sleep is essential for memory, optimal performance, a robust immune system, and brain function. Paul advocated for seven to eight hours of high-quality sleep, stating that it is a basic biological necessity.
“The impact of sleep deprivation on schoolchildren’s cognitive health is an issue that is becoming more urgent in today’s academic environment,” he continued.
He also mentioned common modern distractions, especially how screen time is a major sleep deprivation factor.
For the children to be more intellectual, capable, and skillful, Paul emphasized the “need to promote positive sleep.”
The expert advised policymakers and health professionals to collaborate in order to improve the nation’s youth and children’s sleep quality.
According to the study’s findings, 22.5 percent of teenagers lack enough sleep, which raises serious concerns about their physical and mental well-being.
An additional 65.7% of teenagers exhibited mild to moderate cognitive impairment, despite 60% of individuals exhibiting depressive symptoms.
According to the study, family customs, school schedules, and screen time all affect sleep quality and fuel dysfunction during the day.
Dr. Latika Bhalla, Senior Consultant Adolescent Paediatrician, Institute of Child Health, at the hospital, stated, “The study’s results show a worrying trend: many adolescents are not getting enough sleep, which is closely associated with poor concentration, emotional dysregulation, and reduced academic output.”
The study emphasized how critical it is that families, schools, and legislators acknowledge the importance of sleep for teenage growth. It also emphasizes how urgently children and adolescents require mental health services.
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