Study Links Poor Sleep To Self-Harm In Teenagers

Insufficient sleep puts teens at greater risk of self-harm, according to a new study. Researchers found that 14-year-olds who slept less, went to bed later, and woke up more frequently were 14% more likely to intentionally harm themselves. This elevated risk of self-harm persisted even as the teens reached age 17. “While this is clearly an unfavorable relationship, one positive from this research is that sleep is a modifiable risk factor — we can actually do something about it,” said lead researcher Michaela Pawley of the University of Warwick. The study analyzed data from over 10,000 teenagers born between 2000-2002. Researchers say poor sleep can impair decision-making and coping abilities, contributing to self-harm. With up to 70% of teens not getting enough sleep, the findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy sleep habits to prevent this dangerous behavior. (UPI)