Causes and treatment of insomnia among adolescents.

Though the preponderance of research on insomnia suggests that this malady occurs primarily among the adult population, recent research has revealed that as many as 13% of the adolescent population may suffer from chronic insomnia. Having one in 10 of the school population afflicted by this seldom considered ailment holds serious implications for learning. Adolescent insomnia can impair the victim's daily existence and affect personal life, school performance, and school attendance. Furthermore, if not dealt with initially, adolescent insomnia may lead to adult insomnia and dependence on alcohol and other drugs. The prevalence of adolescent insomnia, its cause, diagnosis, and treatment are examined.