Could Childhood Insomnia Shape Your Mental Health Future?

A 15-year longitudinal study demonstrates how symptoms of childhood sleeplessness can shape significant predictors of anxiety and mood disorders in young people.

Increased Risk of Internalizing Illnesses

A 2.8-fold greater risk of internalizing illnesses was linked to sleeplessness symptoms that shape individuals from childhood through adulthood. Newly established insomnia symptoms during the trial were linked to a 1.9-fold higher incidence of internalizing disorders.

Resolution of Insomnia Symptoms

Children whose insomnia symptoms cleared up during the research period showed no increased risk of internalizing problems.

Insights from the Research: How Childhood Insomnia Can Shape Mental Health

“Our findings indicate that approximately 40% of children do not overcome their symptoms of insomnia as they enter adolescence and are susceptible to mental health issues in their early adult years,” said lead author Julio Fernandez-Mendoza, an associate professor at Penn State College of Medicine with a doctorate in psychobiology. Additionally, he works as a psychologist at Penn State Health Sleep Research and Treatment Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and is board certified in behavioral sleep medicine.

Methodology of the Study

The Penn State Child Cohort, a population-based sample of 700 kids with a median age of nine years, provided the data for the analysis. Eight years later, the researchers checked in with 421 participants who were adolescents (median age of 16 years), and now, fifteen years later, they checked in with 492 participants who are young adults (median age of 24 years). Moderate-to-severe difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep defined insomnia symptoms.

Parents reported the symptoms in childhood, while adolescents and young adults reported them themselves. Self-reports of diagnoses or treatment for mood or anxiety disorders indicated the presence of internalizing disorders.

Factors That Shape the Analysis

Researchers adjusted the results by considering age, gender, race/ethnicity, and past history of internalizing illnesses or medications.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The authors state that research links childhood insomnia symptoms to an increased risk of anxiety and depressive disorders. Moreover, these findings highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing sleep issues early in a child’s development.

“These new findings show that early sleep interventions can help prevent future mental health problems,” said Fernandez-Mendoza. He emphasized that timely interventions can make a significant difference in a child’s overall well-being.

Children whose insomnia improved over time did not face an increased risk of mood or anxiety disorders as adults. Therefore, this underscores the potential benefits of early treatment and support for children experiencing sleep difficulties.