Circadian Rhythms: Why Teens Are Tired in School

The video explains the circadian rhythm, a natural body cycle influenced by light and chemicals like melatonin, cortisol, and adenosine. It highlights how adolescents experience a delayed sleep phase, leading to sleep deprivation and its negative effects on memory, emotions, and health. The video suggests adapting school start times to align with teenagers' natural rhythms, as demonstrated by Seattle Public Schools, which improved students' sleep and well-being.

What role does melatonin play in our sleep cycle?

• It helps us settle into a deep sleep.

• It increases alertness during the day.

• It builds up during the day to make us tired.

• It causes REM sleep to occur.

How do circadian rhythms typically change during adolescence?

• Teenagers start waking up earlier.

• Teenagers' bodies react more to light.

• Teenagers experience a delayed sleep phase.

• Teenagers need less sleep overall.

What is 'social jet lag'?

• The feeling of tiredness after traveling across time zones.

• The mismatch between teenagers' natural sleep cycles and school schedules.

• The increased alertness teenagers feel during weekends.

• The adjustment period when starting a new school year.

What is one potential consequence of teenagers not getting enough REM sleep?

• Improved memory retention

• Increased creativity

• Better emotional regulation

• Heightened sensitivity and moodiness

What was the outcome of Seattle Public Schools changing their start time?

• Students showed decreased motivation to learn.

• Students gained over 30 minutes of sleep each night.

• Students reported lower concentration levels.

• Students lost sleep on average.