For the most part teens are known for going to bed later and sleeping in to the late hours of the afternoon. New research is starting to show a connection between sleeping problems and drug and alcohol problems within teens. These substance issues can include: binge drinking, getting high, driving under the influence, or being involved in sexual situations they later regretted. There are some things that parents can do to help prevent these issues. The main thing parents can do is make sleeping a priority for everyone in the household and create a healthy sleep routine for your teen. These sleeping routines can be possible by doing the following:
- Stick to a sleep schedule
- Limit caffeine
- Keep electronics out of the bedroom
- Encourage daily exercise
- Help teens manage stress
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