The sleep patterns and well-being of Australian adolescents

Adolescent sleep patterns vary between countries, and these differences influence adolescent functioning and well-being. The present study provides data on the sleep and well-being of Australian adolescents.

385 adolescents aged 13-18 years were recruited from 8 South Australian schools spanning the socio-economic spectrum. Adolescents completed survey battery during class time at school, followed by a 7-day sleep diary.

Australian adolescents, on average, obtained inadequate sleep across the school week. Adolescents commonly reported difficulty initiating sleep, unrefreshing sleep, and the subjective feeling of restless legs. Problematic levels of sleepiness, fatigue, depressed mood and anxiety were highly prevalent. Later bedtimes, longer sleep onset latencies, and shorter sleep duration were significantly associated with aspects of poor daytime functioning.

These results add to our knowledge of adolescent sleep and well-being worldwide. They also highlight the need for greater attention to sleep during this phase of development, when future behaviors and outcomes are being shaped.