Galicia's Sleepless Teens: A Growing Health and Academic Crisis

Galicia's Sleepless Teens: A Growing Concern Galicia, Spain – A recent report reveals a concerning trend among Galician adolescents: a significant lack of sleep. Only one in four teens is getting the recommended amount of rest, impacting their health, mood, and academic performance. The issue stems from a mismatch between teenagers' natural late sleep cycles and the demands of early school schedules. "We need to sleep more hours; our bodies tell us to go to bed later, so there's this incongruity," explains psychologist Libertad Culebras. This sleep deficit is causing a range of problems. One young woman interviewed stated, "When I sleep less, I'm not as productive." The consequences extend beyond tiredness. The report highlights increased cases of bruxism, headaches, and persistent fatigue, affecting even relationships with others. "Irritability, distrust, discomfort, that tiredness can make them feel bored, sad. It's easy to confuse these emotions," adds Culebras. The report emphasizes the crucial role of sleep in concentration and academic success. Culebras concludes, "Sleep is fundamental, fundamental in studies. That time for sleeping has to remain untouched." This insightful report serves as a wake-up call, urging a re-evaluation of school schedules and a greater emphasis on the importance of adolescent sleep health.