What's My Sleep IQ?

Teens need 8 - 10 hours of sleep per night.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Many students incorrectly think it is just 8. However, this is more accurate once you are an adult. The optimum amount of sleep for a teenager is thought to be 8-10 hours. Therefore, it is recommended that teenagers have a regular bedtime throughout the week that ensures they get the recommended 8-10 hours.

There is nothing wrong with staying up late on school nights and sleeping late on non-school days as long as I am getting enough sleep.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Adolescents tend to have irregular sleep patterns across the week — they typically stay up late and sleep in late on the weekends, which can affect their biological clocks and hurt the quality of their sleep.

Not getting enough sleep can give you acne.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Not getting enough sleep makes you more prone to pimples. Lack of sleep can contribute to acne and other skin problems.

Sleeping with a light on is harmless.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

It is best to sleep in a room that is as dark as possible.  Even when you are in bed with your eyes closed, low light can increase the risk of awakenings and may have negative effects on circadian rhythm.  

Not getting enough sleep affects my moods and emotions.  

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Sleeplessness and mood disorders are closely linked. And it can work both ways – sleep loss can affect your mood, and your mood can affect how much and how well you sleep.

Falling asleep in class demonstrates a lack of motivation, not sleepiness.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Not entirely true. There are several possible reasons for students falling asleep in class.  Tiredness from daily routine, difficulty concentrating in 60-90 minute classes, or simply a lack of motivation to study.

Watching Netflix or using my handphone helps me relax before bed. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Many electronics (especially handphones and tablets) emit a bright light, which reduces the production of melatonin, a hormone that makes you feel sleepy. This not only leads to a reduction of sleep duration, but also sleep quality.

Energy drinks are a healthy option to help teens stay awake.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The high dose of caffeine in energy drinks can disrupt sleep, make the heart race, upset the stomach and interact with medications.

If you study all night before a test, you will remember the information better.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Recent research showed people who are sleep deprived find it harder to remember things compared to those who had got a good night’s sleep. One explanation for this is that sleep allows the brain to prioritise the information we need to remember. 

Sleep improves concentration. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

A lack of sleep can slow down the functioning of certain brain areas resulting in lower levels of student concentration. This could in turn hinder academic performance. Getting enough sleep is vital for our overall health and wellbeing.