You feel sleepy during puberty primarily because your brain is undergoing significant development and you're likely experiencing growth spurts, both of which require more sleep.
The Science Behind Teen Sleepiness
Puberty is a period of intense physical and cognitive change. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, teenagers are going through a second developmental stage of cognitive maturation. This means:
- Brain Development: Your brain is actively developing and rewiring itself. This process requires significant energy and is supported by adequate sleep. Crocetti explains that this additional sleep supports their developing brain.
- Physical Growth: Puberty is characterized by rapid physical growth spurts. These growth spurts also require more energy, making you feel tired more easily.
Therefore, the increased sleepiness you experience during puberty is a normal and necessary part of your development. Your body needs the extra rest to support all the changes happening.
