Second-generation Latino teens experience sleeplessness for numerous reasons. Mood, work or school-related anxiety, and stress from discrimination frequently takes a toll on the sleeping habits of Latino youth.

According to a report commissioned by Procter & Gamble brands ZzzQuil and Febreze, as a part of the Sleep Soundly program, 22 percent of young adults struggle with falling asleep more often on Sunday nights compared to other nights of the week, and that's due to pre-school/work week stress (69 percent). Twenty-percent of surveyed individuals admitted that their failure to get a good night sleep on Sunday affected the rest of their week. And 73 percent of those who struggle to fall asleep on Sunday night stated that their mood was affected the following day. On average, it takes most 64 minutes to fall asleep after getting into bed on Sundays.

A study presented by NYU tracked the mental health of 173 Latino teens, and it determined that U.S.-born Latinos and their sleep tends to be frequently impacted by racist jokes and failing to receive due credit because of their cultural background. The strain of discrimination leads to depression, anxiety and sleep deprivation, according to the study. And researchers found a link between mental health and stress levels among second-generation Latinos, who easily notice racist behavior.

Chronic sleep loss can result in impaired judgment, health problems, a diminished sex drive, depression, aged skin, unhealthy food choices, forgetfulness, weight gain, inconsistent sleep schedule, increased risk of death and accidents. Restful sleep is important, and it's essential for mental and physical health. High quality sleep can produce balance in every area of one's life.

Jenni Pulos, star of Bravo's "Flipping Out," shared some helpful sleep tips to counter sleeplessness in a press release. Included: stick to a specific sleep schedule; avoid drinking alcohol; paint rooms a cooling color; create a soothing sleeping environment, set aside some "me time;" try sleep aids; relax and wind down; sleep in cool bedroom; and sleep in a dim room.

Also, consider some tips that Pulos didn't suggest, and attempt to address the root of sleeplessness and the significant stressors. Consider mediation and eating well (fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meat). Also, sufferers should also consider speaking with someone about concerns that prompt insomnia, and consider conversations with a sleep specialist or a psychologist. Also, seek out stories in the media that profile and promote Latinos or people likeminded individuals to create a positive way of thinking may also help.

Related