0487 Exploration of Sleep Problems and Medication Use for Youth Residing in Juvenile Justice Facilities

Abstract

Introduction Insufficient and disordered sleep are common among developing adolescents and can result in poor health and behavioral consequences. Previous studies have examined sleep and adolescent criminal behavior; however, little is known about adolescent sleep difficulties or disorders while residing in juvenile detention and treatment facilities. The current study explores psychiatric and sleep disorder diagnoses and medication use of youth under the care of the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS). Methods Participants were recruited from 11 detention and treatment facilities across Maryland. Youth (N = 67) were 13-19 years old (M = 16.8, SD = 1.2) and 84% male and 16% female. Racial Backgrounds: 55% Black, 18% White, 14% Multiracial, and 12% Other. A Healthcare staff member from each facility completed an online medical questionnaire regarding each youth’s sleep history, medical diagnoses, and current medications. Results The most common youth diagnoses were Insomnia (N = 26), ADHD (N = 26), and Anxiety (N = 12) with 72% of youth having more than one psychiatric/sleep disorder diagnosis. The most frequently used medications were melatonin (N = 23), trazodone (N = 12), and quetiapine (N=7) and 58% were on more than one sleep/psychotropic medication. Healthcare staff ordered 25 behavioral sleep studies (e.g., DJS behavioral sleep studies consists of night resident staff tracking if youth is asleep/awake while making rounds), resulting in diagnoses of insomnia (N=9) and parasomnia (N=1). Youth with sleep studies were prescribed the following medications: trazodone (N = 5), melatonin (N = 3), other (e.g., methylphenidate, clonidine, N = 11). Conclusion These preliminary findings suggest that youth are experiencing poor sleep quality while residing in juvenile justice facilities; over a third of the youth are struggling with insomnia and are prescribed Melatonin. Further data analyses will provide a better understanding of the youths’ sleep problems and the effects on their overall health and well-being. Support (If Any) This research is made possible by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) Foundation Award #22-CS-19 and Department of Juvenile Services’ supportive collaboration.