Sleep key to preventing teenage depression?

June 9, 2009 A new study finds teens with 10 p.m. bedtimes are less likely to become depressed or have suicidal thoughts than their peers who stay up much later.

Researchers say their study bolsters the argument that a lack of sleep can cause depression.

The findings presented Tuesday at the Associated Professional Sleep Society's annual meeting in Seattle found that teens' whose parents insist on a 10 p.m. or sooner for lights out were 25 percent less likely to be depressed and 20 percent less likely to have suicidal thoughts.

Scientists say, in addition, a lack of sleep can affect a child's focus and learning and make teens more impulsive.