A new study published in the journal Sleep has found a connection between poor sleep and mental health problems in adolescents. The study, which was conducted in the United Kingdom, surveyed 3,134 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 to investigate the relationship between sleep and mental health.

The study found that adolescents who reported poor sleep had a higher risk of developing mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and behavior problems. The researchers also found that poor sleep was associated with a higher risk of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Faith Orchard of the University of Reading, said that the findings suggest that poor sleep could be a risk factor for mental health problems in adolescents. She added that the study highlights the importance of improving sleep in this age group.

“Given the importance of sleep for physical and mental health, it is important that we understand the links between poor sleep and mental health in young people and explore interventions that can improve sleep and reduce the risk of mental health problems,” Dr. Orchard said.

The study also found that adolescents who reported poor sleep were more likely to experience stress, engage in less physical activity, and spend more time using electronic devices before bed. The researchers suggest that reducing electronic device use before bedtime could be one way to improve sleep in adolescents.

The study’s findings are consistent with previous research that has shown a link between poor sleep and mental health problems in adults. The researchers say that more research is needed to better understand the relationship between sleep and mental health in adolescents and to develop effective interventions to improve sleep in this age group.

“Improving sleep in adolescents has the potential to improve a range of mental health outcomes, and this should be a priority for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers,” Dr. Orchard said.