What are the causes of insomnia in adolescents?
Generally, insomnia in adolescents may be related to factors such as circadian rhythm disorders, excessive academic pressure, anemia, anxiety disorders, and depression. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and, under a doctor's guidance, undergo treatments such as general therapy or medication. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Circadian Rhythm Disorders
Due to academic demands, social activities, and other reasons, adolescents often develop irregular sleep-wake schedules, leading to circadian rhythm disturbances that affect sleep. Establishing consistent sleep habits and avoiding excessive use of electronic devices before bedtime are recommended.
2. Excessive Academic Pressure
Adolescents frequently face multiple pressures from schoolwork, exams, and future concerns during their studies, which can cause mental tension and anxiety, potentially leading to insomnia. Parents and teachers should offer appropriate support and understanding, help arrange study schedules reasonably, and avoid excessive stress.
3. Anemia
Poor nutrition, iron deficiency, or excessive blood loss may cause anemia. A lack of essential nutrients and reduced red blood cells can lead to physical fatigue and difficulty falling asleep. Symptoms may include pale complexion, weakness, and dizziness. Treatment may involve medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, vitamin C tablets, and folic acid tablets, taken under medical supervision.
4. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders may be triggered by trauma, stress, drug or alcohol use, and poor health conditions. In adolescents, the brain's stress response system may remain continuously activated, causing symptoms such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and difficulty relaxing into deep sleep. Symptoms may also include excessive worry, fear, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Medications such as sertraline hydrochloride capsules, olanzapine-fluoxetine capsules, and sertraline hydrochloride capsules may be used under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.
5. Depression
Life changes, social and environmental factors, illness, genetics, and personality traits may contribute to depression. Depression can disrupt emotional regulation and sleep cycles in adolescents, causing insomnia. Symptoms may include low mood, loss of interest, and self-blame. Patients may follow medical advice to take medications such as paroxetine tablets, fluvoxamine maleate tablets, and fluoxetine capsules for treatment.
Establishing good sleep hygiene habits, such as maintaining a comfortable sleep environment and avoiding caffeine intake at night, can help improve sleep quality.