Why North American Teens Are Losing Sleep—and What It Means for Their Future
Why North American Teens Are Losing Sleep—and What It Means for Their Future
Why North American Teens Are Losing Sleep—and What It Means for Their Future
Teenagers in North America are struggling with sleep. A recent study shows many are not meeting the recommended eight to ten hours per night. Factors like early school start times, smartphone use, and social media contribute to the problem. A national survey in Canada from March 2026 revealed that 41 per cent of Canadians get less than seven hours of sleep nightly. Among teenagers aged 12 to 17, 37 per cent fail to meet the minimum sleep recommendation. About one third of Canadian teens sleep less than eight hours.
In the US, the situation is similar. Only 22 per cent of older adolescents manage at least seven hours of sleep each night. A study of over 400,000 American teenagers from 1991 to 2023 highlights a decline in sleep duration. Even among Canadians who sleep seven or more hours, 65 per cent report difficulties falling or staying asleep.
Experts warn that poor sleep habits in adolescence can persist into adulthood. Early school start times, excessive screen time, and social media use are key factors in the trend. Sleep is vital for health and daily life, particularly during adolescence. The findings suggest a need for greater awareness of sleep’s importance. Addressing the issue could improve long-term habits and well-being for teenagers.