Study suggests childhood sleep problems could increase the risk of suicide later in life.

While occasional sleep issues in children are often seen as a passing phase, a new study warns that they could lead to serious consequences, including a higher risk for suicidal thoughts or actions in the future.

Children who experienced severe sleep disturbances at age 10 were found to have a 2.7 times greater risk of developing suicidal thoughts or attempts within two years, as reported in a study published in JAMA Network Open. Almost 1 in 3 of those with severe sleep issues later exhibited suicidal behavior.

"Sleep is an easily identifiable, non-stigmatizing, and treatable risk factor. We recommend focusing on sleep as a key area for research and intervention in preventing youth suicide," said Dr. Rebecca Bernert, senior study author and suicidologist at Stanford University.

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among children aged 10 to 14, a group also significantly affected by sleep disturbances, according to the study.

Sleep disturbances have been recognized as a significant risk factor for suicidal behaviors in adults, even without the presence of depression. However, long-term studies focusing on suicidal behaviors during the transition from childhood to adolescence have been scarce.

To explore this, the authors analyzed data from over 8,800 children, initially recruited at ages 9 or 10 through the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study across 21 U.S. sites. Guardians provided information on their child's sleep patterns, including trouble falling or staying asleep, sleepiness, breathing issues during sleep, and behaviors linked to partial awakenings.

In addition to sleep data, guardians also reported on their child’s symptoms of anxiety and depression, along with family history of depression, family conflict, and parental monitoring.

By ages 11 or 12, 91.3% of participants had not experienced suicidal thoughts or attempts in the two years since the initial data collection. However, for those who did, severe sleep disturbances were strongly linked to a higher risk of suicidal ideation and attempts, even when accounting for factors like depression, anxiety, and family-related risks. This risk was especially higher for adolescents of color and females.

The study also found that frequent nightmares were associated with a fivefold increase in the likelihood of suicidal behaviors.

The results aren’t surprising, as we often overlook how essential sleep is for children and adolescents, despite knowing its importance for babies, said Dr. Christopher Willard, a psychologist from Massachusetts and Harvard Medical School, via email. He was not involved in the study.

During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes, similar to the rapid development seen in the first year of life. This explains why sleep is crucial during these years for proper development, Willard explained.

The findings of this study have the potential for wide-reaching effects across various fields.

Dr. Rebecca Berry, a clinical psychologist at New York University, noted that the study’s design and its large sample of young, nonclinical participants give it significant relevance for parents, healthcare providers, and public health efforts, though she was not involved in the research.

Understanding the connection between chronic sleep disruptions and suicide risk remains a key area of investigation.

Further research using objective sleep data, as well as exploring the frequency, types, and emotional effects of nightmares, would provide valuable insights, according to Dr. Rebecca Bernert, assistant professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine.

"It’s crucial to remember that this study doesn’t claim that poor sleep directly causes suicidal behavior, but rather shows a connection between the two," explained Dr. Neha Chaudhary, child and adolescent psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She was not involved in the study.

Chronic sleep disturbances could be early indicators of developing mental health issues that worsen over time, noted Dr. Chaudhary, who also serves as the chief medical officer at Modern Health.

As for why sleep disturbances are linked to suicidal behavior, Dr. Bernert explained that sleep serves as a reflection of overall well-being and emotional health. "When sleep fails to provide the necessary emotional relief, it may leave individuals more vulnerable," she stated in a media fact sheet.

Experts also suggest that inadequate sleep, whether in quality or quantity, could negatively impact brain function.

"Sleep issues — including insufficient sleep caused by stress, busy schedules, schoolwork, and screen time — hinder brain development in multiple ways, particularly affecting mood, anxiety, and emotional regulation," explained Dr. Willard.

This lack of emotional regulation and sleep deprivation can impair decision-making, reduce stress-coping abilities, increase impulsivity, and make problem-solving more difficult. Sleep also plays a key role in regulating neurotransmitters, metabolism, brain plasticity, and removing toxic waste from the brain, according to Dr. Berry.

Supporting your child's health begins with ensuring they have healthy sleep habits.

To promote good sleep, it’s essential to establish strong nighttime routines and consistent bedtimes for your children, emphasized Dr. Willard.

"While homework expectations play a significant role in sleep disruptions, families can help by maintaining a consistent bedtime routine," he added.

Establish a calming bedtime routine an hour before sleep, advises Dr. Berry. This should reduce screen time, homework, and physical activity while including relaxing activities like light reading, journaling, or listening to soothing music.

For children who have difficulty settling down at night, parents might consider teaching mindfulness techniques to help with emotional regulation, suggested Dr. Berry.

Good sleep hygiene is reinforced by healthy daytime habits such as regular exercise, sunlight exposure, managing stress, and avoiding naps, Dr. Berry added.

READ MORE: How to recognize if your child’s moodiness is linked to a mental health disorder

Sleep disturbances can be a sign of various mental health issues, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), noted Dr. Willard.

"If you notice significant changes in your child's sleep habits," Dr. Willard advised, "consult with your pediatrician, monitor the situation, and consider adjusting daily and nightly routines to help."

Effective treatments for adolescents include cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) and imagery rehearsal therapy for nightmares, according to Dr. Bernert.

While predicting a suicide attempt is difficult, warning signs like severe mood swings, feelings of hopelessness, or a loss of interest in activities can be present. It’s important to have open discussions with your child about their mental health and reach out for professional support if needed.

Experts agree that active parental involvement can significantly reduce suicide risk. In fact, the study found that children who perceived increased parental monitoring — such as regular family dinners and awareness of their whereabouts — had a 15% lower risk of suicidal behavior.