The Basics: Overview

It's important to get enough sleep. Sleep helps keep your mind and body healthy.

How much sleep do I need?

Most adults need 7 or more hours of good-quality sleep on a regular schedule each night.

Getting enough sleep isn’t only about total hours of sleep. It’s also important to get good-quality sleep on a regular schedule so you feel rested when you wake up.

If you often have trouble sleeping — or if you often still feel tired after sleeping — talk with your doctor.

How much sleep do children need?

Kids need even more sleep than adults:

• Teens need 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night
• School-aged children need 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night
• Preschoolers need to sleep between 10 and 13 hours a day (including naps)
• Toddlers need to sleep between 11 and 14 hours a day (including naps)
• Babies need to sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day (including naps)
• Newborns need to sleep between 14 and 17 hours a day