Most teens need about 8 to more than 9 hours of sleep each night. The right amount of sleep is necessary for anyone who wants to do well in a test or play sports without tripping over their feet. Unfortunately, though, many teens don't get enough sleep.
______________? Early starting time in some schools may play a role in this sleep deficit (不足). Teens who fall asleep after midnight may still have to get up early for school, meaning that they may only shorten into 6 or 7 hours of sleep a night. A couple of hours of missed sleep a night may not seem like a big deal, but can create a noticeable sleep deficit over time.
Why is sleep important? Sleep deficit affects everything from a person's ability to pay attention in class to his or her mood. Research shows that more than 20% of high school students fall asleep in class, and experts have been able to tie lost sleep to poorer grades. Lack of sleep also damages teens' ability to do their best in sports. Slowed responses and less concentration(专注)caused by sleep deficit don't just affect school or sports performance, though. Lack of sleep slows reaction time, which can be life threatening for people who drive. The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration reports that 1, 500 people are killed every year in crashes caused by drivers between the ages of 15 and 24 who are simply tired. Lack of sleep has also been linked to emotional troubles, such as feelings of sadness and depression. Sleep helps keep us physically healthy, too, by slowing our body's systems enough to re-energize us after everyday activities.
How do I know if I'm getting enough sleep? Even if you think you're getting enough sleep, you may not be. Here are some of the signs that you may need more sleep: ⑴difficulty in waking up in the morning; ⑵inability to focus; ⑶falling asleep during classes; ⑷feelings of anxiety and even depression(忧郁). Recently, some researchers, parents, and teachers have suggested that middle and high school classes begin later in the morning to meet teens' need for more sleep. Some schools have already tried later starting time. You and your friends, parents, and teachers can call up for later start time at your school, but in the meantime you'll have to make changes on your own first.
