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Another reason why sleep is important for teens is because sleep deprivation can increase their likelihood of using drugs and alcohol. A study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence indicates that the disruption of the natural sleep cycle can significantly increase the risk of substance use, by interfering with brain functions that regulate the experience of reward, emotions, and impulsivity.
Sleep-deprived teens tend to engage in risky behaviors because their impulse control is compromised. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse statistics show that high school students who get less than eight hours of sleep per night are significantly more likely to use alcohol, smoke marijuana, and become lifetime users of illegal drugs.
One study found that sleep deprivation is linked to binge drinking, drunk driving, and unprotected sex.
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