Insomnia in Parents has Negative Effects on Children
A recent study performed at the University of Pittsburgh found that the children of parents with a history of chronic insomnia are not only more prone to insomnia and other sleep disorders themselves, but they are more likely to experience daytime fatigue, engage in substance abuse, and to suffer from depression and anxiety.
Insomnia, classified as a sleep disorder which causes a person to have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or to consistently wake up too early in the morning. It is considered one of the most common - and most often reported - sleeping problems. In the sleep study report, Dr. Xianchen Liu says:
“Family sleep interventions may be important to enhance sleep quality and decrease risks for sleep disturbance, psychopathology and suicidal behavior in adolescents. Further studies are warranted to examine how and the extent to which genetic and environmental factors interact in determining sleep disturbances and psychopathology among adolescents.”
With this evidence, it is painfully obvious that sleep disorders affect others just as much as the individual who suffers from them, especially children whose parents have insomnia or other sleep issues. On a more positive note, however, the Speed Sleep program can benefit both parents and children (particularly new mothers who have trouble sleeping as they adjust to parenthood).
Tags: Dangers of Sleep Deprivation, Health, Insomnia, Sleep Disorders, Sleep Studies