The AASM Foundation invited teens to participate in the 2018 “Make Time 2 Sleep” High School Video Contest, which focused on motivating teens to prioritize the importance of sleep in their lives. The contest is open to U.S. high school students in grades 9 – 12. The first-place prize winner will receive $1,000 – split evenly between the contest entrant and his or her school.

(The entry period for the “Make Time 2 Sleep” High School Video Contest is now closed. All applicants will be notified of the award decision via email by May 1, 2018.)

Along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, sleep is one of the pillars of a healthy lifestyle. Getting the sleep that your body needs is essential for your health and well-being. To get good sleep, you need a good bedtime. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that teens between 13 and 18 years of age should sleep 8 to 10 hours per night on a regular basis to promote optimal health. However, CDC data show that 73% of U.S. high school students report sleeping fewer than 8 hours on an average school night.

These students are suffering from chronic sleep restriction, which can have a negative impact on their physical and mental health, academic and athletic performance, and mood. Chronic sleep loss also can influence teens’ decision-making, putting personal and public safety at risk.

The Foundation seeks to educate high school students on the importance of healthy sleep through this fun video contest with a sleep-related theme. Learn more about the High School Video Contest and view previous winners.