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Restless-Leg Syndrome Among Adolescents: Impact on Sleep Quality, Mood, and Academic Performance
Moutrisha M Roy1, Ruchi Singh1, Anzar Bashir Alvi1
1Department of Physiology, AIIMS Bhopal, Bhopal, India.
Behavioral Sleep Medicine
|August 14, 2026
Summary
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) affects nearly 30% of adolescents, leading to poor sleep, increased daytime sleepiness, and mood issues. RLS in teens is also linked to lower academic performance in key subjects.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological sleep disorder characterized by an urge to move the legs.
- Symptoms often begin in adolescence, with over 25% of affected individuals experiencing onset between 10-20 years of age.
- RLS is frequently underrecognized in adolescents, impacting their well-being and academic life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of RLS among adolescents aged 10-19 years.
- To investigate the association between RLS and sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, mood, and academic performance in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 2,289 school-going adolescents (aged 10-19 years).
- Validated tools were used to assess sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, RLS symptoms, and mood fluctuations.
- Approvals, informed assent, and parental consent were obtained prior to data collection.
Main Results:
- Nearly 30% (29.18%) of adolescents reported experiencing RLS symptoms.
- Adolescents with RLS showed significantly poorer sleep quality, increased daytime sleepiness (p < .001), and higher risks of depression (OR=1.678), anxiety (OR=1.514), and stress (OR=1.706).
- RLS was associated with lower academic scores in science, English, mathematics, economics, and overall performance among specific student groups.
Conclusions:
- RLS is prevalent in adolescents and significantly impacts sleep, mood, and academic achievement.
- The combination of RLS-related sleep and circadian issues with developmental changes may lead to varied outcomes.
- Early recognition and management of RLS in adolescents are crucial for improving their overall health and academic success.
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