We already know this pandemic has been horrendous for teens and their mental health. Last month’s mental health advisory from the U.S. surgeon general underscored the magnitude of the issue, as feelings of hopelessness and even suicidality have been on the rise over the past several years among this age group, with the pandemic only adding to teens’ stress levels.

But there is another piece that plays an important factor in teen mental health, especially now: sleep and its role in boosting mental health and emotional resiliency.

With children and teens readjusting to the world in the wake of pandemic isolation, sleeping well can be a protective factor, says Lisa Meltzer, a pediatric psychologist at National Jewish Health in Denver.

Keywords - Parenting