Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Sleep Disorders in Adolescence

Background: During the past two decades, research has elucidated many aspects of sleep physiology and the importance of sleep in regards to physical and mental health. According to recent epidemiological studies, most adolescents report persistent sleep difficulties that interfere with their daily functioning. Sleep quality is an important public health issue that requires adequate attention from clinicians, parents, and educators. Method: A comprehensive literature review was employed to establish the recommendations in this report. This article provides a review of adolescent sleep physiology and offers various tools to aid in the clinical assessment and treatment of common sleep disorders. It highlights typical sleep changes throughout adolescence and the impact that these changes have on the development of sleep pathology. Results: Chronic sleep loss is commonly reported among teenagers. Understanding the relationship between pubertal development and sleep regulation is essential for establishing clinical guidelines regarding adequate sleep. Benzodiazepine-receptor agonists (BzRAs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are the most widely studied treatments for insomnia. In addition, bright light therapy and melatonin administration are often effective in treating circadian rhythm disorders. Sleep hygiene techniques are recommended for individuals with various sleep difficulties, yet there is insufficient data to support them as an evidence-based, stand-alone treatment. Conclusions: The physiological components of sleep during puberty provide insight into behavioral and psychological changes associated with healthy development. Chronic sleep deprivation, insomnia, and delayed sleep phase disorder are the most common sleep disorders during maturation. Chronic sleep problems during youth can cause an array of symptoms that impact behavioral and psychological functioning. Diagnostic tools are essential to properly detect sleep disorders at early stages. Detecting and treating sleep-related issues among youth can prevent deficits in daily functioning and may halt the progression of psychiatric pathology into adulthood.