Student health: Sleep deprivation and activity levels at school start

As the new school year begins, experts are highlighting the importance of establishing healthy routines for children, specifically focusing on physical activity and sleep hygiene.

Data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, conducted in cooperation with the World Health Organization, reveals significant sleep deprivation among Hungarian students. On school days, students sleep an average of only 7.59 hours, while the recommended amount is at least eight hours. The study shows that sleep duration decreases as students age; for example, fifth graders average 8.53 hours, whereas eleventh graders average only 7.09 hours. Consequently, 57.3 percent of students report struggling with intense fatigue several times a week, which can negatively impact concentration, academic performance, and mood.

To mitigate these issues, experts suggest a gradual transition back to school schedules, adjusting sleep patterns by 10–15 minutes daily rather than making abrupt changes. Additionally, the return to a regular routine is viewed as an ideal time for families to reintegrate regular physical activity. Encouraging movement through shared family activities, such as walking or cycling, is recommended to help children develop lifelong healthy habits.