A growing number of American teenagers are experiencing “very short sleep” – less than five hours a night – according to new research published March 2nd, 2026, in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The trend, identified by researchers at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, suggests a societal shift impacting adolescent health and well-being. This concerning rise in sleep deprivation is prompting calls for population-level interventions to address the issue.
The problem of insufficient sleep among adolescents isn’t new. As far back as 1905, a study in The Lancet examined the sleep patterns of boys in British boarding schools, noting concerns about inadequate rest due to artificial nighttime lighting and questioning the wisdom of the “early to bed, early to rise” adage. Later, in the 1950s, public attention turned to the influence of emerging entertainment options like radio and television on teenagers’ sleep schedules. However, current data indicates the situation is worsening, with rates of severe sleep deprivation reaching unprecedented levels.
Analyzing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a nationally representative study tracking adolescent risk behaviors, researchers found that more than 50% of teens reported getting less than five hours of sleep per night in the most recent survey. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years, marking the highest percentage of sleep-deprived teens ever recorded by the survey. The Youth Risk Behavior Survey provides crucial long-term data on trends affecting young people.
Experts define less than five hours of sleep as “very short sleep,” and it’s linked to a range of negative outcomes. These include difficulties with emotional regulation, such as increased anxiety and depression, impaired academic performance and neurocognitive development, and a higher risk of developing obesity and diabetes. The study revealed that the increase in insufficient sleep was observed across all demographic subgroups, regardless of pre-existing risk factors like depressive symptoms, substance use, or excessive screen time.
Decline in Sufficient Sleep
Conversely, the proportion of teenagers achieving sufficient sleep – defined as eight or more hours per night – has steadily declined. Researchers found that only 25% of teens reported getting at least eight hours of sleep in 2023, down from over 30% in 2007. This downward trend underscores the growing challenge of promoting healthy sleep habits among adolescents.
“These trends highlight the demand for population-level interventions among teens,” stated the UConn researchers. “For example, later school start times can help with longer sleep, which may lead to better mental health outcomes and greater academic engagement.” The study emphasizes that addressing this issue requires a broad approach, targeting systemic factors that contribute to sleep deprivation.
Potential Interventions and Future Research
While later school start times are frequently cited as a potential solution, researchers acknowledge that more investigation is needed to determine the most effective interventions. T. Greg Rhee and his colleagues suggest further research should explore whether reforming academic and extracurricular schedules to reduce evening demands could also improve sleep health among teenagers. This could involve re-evaluating homework loads, limiting late-night activities, and promoting a more balanced lifestyle.
The increasing prevalence of sleep deprivation among US teens is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. Addressing this public health concern will require a collaborative effort involving schools, families, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Continued research and the implementation of evidence-based interventions are crucial to ensuring that adolescents get the restorative sleep they need to thrive.
Looking ahead, researchers plan to investigate the specific factors driving this trend and to evaluate the effectiveness of different intervention strategies. Understanding the underlying causes of sleep deprivation and identifying effective solutions will be essential to improving the health and well-being of future generations.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with your network to raise awareness about the importance of sleep for teenagers.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
