Central Delhi survey finds poor sleep quality in 22.5% of adolescents

A survey of 1,452 adolescents in Central Delhi found that 326 had poor sleep quality under the study’s assessment. These students averaged 64% in academic grades, compared with 67% among students with better sleep quality.

The study, published in the *Indian Journal of Community Medicine* in May 2026, surveyed boys and girls aged 12 to 18 from government, government-aided and private schools. Researchers used questionnaires on sleep quality, depressive symptoms, cognition and sleep habits. A Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score above five was classified as poor sleep quality, while sleeping for fewer than eight hours was considered insufficient sleep.

Nearly half the students reported difficulty staying awake at least once a week, while 6% reported this three or more times a week. Adolescents with depressive symptoms had 3.51 times higher odds of poor sleep quality after researchers adjusted for other factors. Higher sleep-hygiene scores were associated with lower odds of poor sleep quality.

The researchers proposed school-based programmes on sleep habits and mental health, with parents and teachers supporting regular sleep routines.