Albuquerque, N.M. (KKOB) — UNM Associate Professor Ryan Kelly says a lack of sleep could have a much worse effect on teens than just a bad mood. In studying nearly 250 fifteen to 16-year-olds, Kelly and his team discovered a prolonged lack of sleep can lead to depression symptoms, anxiety, and aggression. He says higher rates of poverty and stress also equal less sleep for teens. Less sleep hits mood, which could compromise academic achievement. For these reasons, his research aligns with a recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which points to later school start times for kids. They say 8:30 a.m. or later is an ideal time for high school to begin. Right now, the first bell for teens in Albuquerque rings at 7:25 a.m.
