Dr. (Prof.) V.K., a member of the Health Department of NITI Aayog Paul has recently revealed a worrying fact that about 25 percent of the country’s school children are not able to get enough sleep. This deficiency is not only affecting the mental and physical health of children, but also has a serious impact on their overall development and educational performance.
Main facts of report
The report, prepared in collaboration with the National Health System Resource Center (NHSRC) and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, has a detailed analysis of the sleeping habits and their effects of teenagers aged 12 to 18 years. According to the report, about 22.5 percent of children do not get the necessary sleep at night, affecting their ability to think and understand.
7 to 8 hours of sleep required: Dr. V.K. Paul
Dr. Paul described sleep as a mandatory biological need, which is necessary for the correct functioning of the brain, memory, physical immunity and better performance. He says that it is very important for children to have quality sleep of at least 7 to 8 hours daily.
Screen Time and Educational Pressure Big Obstacles
The report also reported that spending more time on mobile, tablet, laptop, TV etc. and continued in online activity till late night is disrupting children’s sleep. In addition, the school’s hard routine, increasing academic pressure and family lifestyle are also the main reasons behind lack of sleep.
Serious impact on mental health
The report also found that 60 percent of children have seen symptoms of depression (depression), while 65.7 percent of children’s cognitive capacity has declined. Child health expert Dr. Latika Bhalla said that lack of sleep is pushing children towards mental instability, affecting their studies and overall development.
Steps required for solution
Dr. Paul said that the school, family and policy makers should give priority to the children’s sleep. Schools should make a time table keeping in mind the sleep of children and parents should also adopt a lifestyle in the house that promotes the sleep of children. He insisted that sleep should be made an important part of health policy like education and nutrition so that our children can become healthy, intelligent and capable.
Memorable: Good sleep of children not only ensures their physical and mental health, but is also very important for their learning ability and emotional balance. Therefore, it is the duty of all to be aware of this subject and take concrete steps for improvement.
