Sleep disorders can affect people of any age. Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, restless legs syndrome, and insomnia are a few examples of disorders that may disrupt sleep cycles in teens.

Sleep-wake disorders are a group of conditions that affect the quality or quantity of sleep or the timing of the sleep cycle. They feature patterns of sleep disturbances that can lead to symptoms such as:

  • excessive daytime sleepiness
  • diminished concentration
  • mood changes

Although sleep-wake disorders can affect people at any age, some of them are more common among specific age groups and demographics.

According to a 2022 research review, 15% to 19% of teens who do not have any neurodevelopmental conditions may experience a sleep-wake disorder, and the prevalence is significantly higher in those who live with a neurodevelopmental, emotional, behavioral, or cognitive condition.

School, social, and family stress; technology use; irregular sleep schedules; and hormonal changes are all common factors in sleep disturbances during the teen years.

Reports of the prevalence of sleep-wake disorders among adolescents or teens vary across the available research. Differences in samples, cultural factors, developmental status, and specific sleep-wake disorder criteria could contribute to these variances.

However, research generally suggests that the following sleep-wake disorders are common in teens:

Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD)

DSWPD involves difficulty falling asleep unless it’s late at night and difficulty waking up early the next day.

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR), DSWPD falls into the category of circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders with the specifier “delayed sleep phase type.”

Insomnia disorder

Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and returning to sleep after early waking are the hallmarks of insomnia disorder.

According to a research paper from 2020, insomnia is common among teens and is often related to anxious or stressful thoughts.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

RLS, which is also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an intense urge to move the legs.

Symptoms of RLS may happen during the day and night, but they may intensify after long periods of inactivity, such as right before bed and during sleep.

RLS discomfort can lead to interrupted sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

OSA occurs when the soft tissues of the upper airway collapse inward and block or obstruct your breathing.

OSA can cause snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, and frequent waking. It is common in children and teens and is a risk factor for other serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects how your brain regulates sleep-wake cycles.

There are two primary types of narcolepsy, both of which feature symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness (an overwhelming, uncontrollable need to sleep) and disrupted nighttime slumber.

Narcolepsy type 1 can also involve cataplexy (episodes of sudden muscle weakness).

According to a U.S. database claims study from 2024, about 0.01% of youth develop narcolepsy, primarily during adolescence.

Many factors can contribute to the development of sleep-wake disorders in teens. Genetics, underlying health conditions, and hormonal changes are some factors that can affect the likelihood of sleep disturbances.

Other variable risk factors for sleep-wake disorders in teens may include:

  • social, school, or family stress
  • excessive screen time before bed or throughout the day
  • large amounts of schoolwork
  • inadequate sleep hygiene habits
  • excessive caffeine consumption
  • higher body mass index (BMI)
  • physical inactivity
  • cigarette smoking
  • substance use
  • co-occurring conditions

Sleep-wake disorder treatment may vary depending on the individual diagnosis and symptom severity.

Medications, lifestyle changes, behavioral changes, and psychotherapy are common components of a sleep-wake disorder management plan. Some conditions, such as OSA, may also require the use of medical devices or surgical interventions.

General treatment approaches for the following sleep-wake disorders in teens may include:

  • DSWPD: morning bright light exposure therapy, a structured sleep schedule, and melatonin to assist with sleep if needed
  • Insomnia disorder: sleep medications, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, lifestyle changes, and relaxation strategies
  • RLS: medications to manage neurological impulses, lifestyle changes, massage, hot and cold therapy, and stretching
  • OSA: positive airway pressure therapy, breathing devices, weight management, sleep position training, and surgery if necessary
  • Narcolepsy: structured use of stimulant and sleep-aid medications, lifestyle changes, scheduled napping, and improved sleep hygiene habits

Sleep-wake disorder symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, mood changes, and fatigue can have interpersonal and academic effects that compound the stress teens already experience.

If a sleep-wake disorder is causing major challenges in daily life, a mental health professional can help a teenager develop beneficial coping skills and manage stress.

Why does my teen sleep so much?

Teens need sleep — in fact, they need more sleep than adults because their bodies are still growing and developing. It’s natural for a teen to sleep more than an adult.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teens need 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night, while adults may need 7 to 9 hours.

Stress, demanding schedules, and high physical and mental output can also increase a teen’s need for sleep.

Sleep-wake disorders affect the timing, duration, and quality of sleep. They can develop at any age, including during adolescence.

Insomnia disorder, DSWPD, and OSA are examples of sleep-wake disorders that are common in adolescence.

Hormones, genetics, and underlying health conditions can play a role in a teen’s development of a sleep-wake disorder. Sleep hygiene habits, stress at home or school, and lifestyle factors often play a role as well.

Depending on the specific diagnosis, healthcare professionals may recommend medications, lifestyle strategies, and behavioral changes to help manage a sleep-wake disorder.