DARIEN, IL – The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates the three students selected as the winners of the 2023 AASM “Unplug to Recharge” High School Video Contest, which focused on educating teens about the effects of technology on sleep.
More than 70 video entries were submitted by high school students from across the U.S. Each entry was evaluated by a panel of judges for its originality and video quality, as well as the appropriateness, relevance and accuracy of its message, consistent with the mission and vision of the AASM.
“Healthy sleep is an essential part of overall health, and this contest gives high school students the opportunity to creatively share their perspectives about how technology can impact sleep during this critical period of development,” said AASM President Jennifer Martin.
Submissions were reviewed by the AASM Public Awareness Advisory Committee, which selected the top two winners. The third place “Teen’s Choice Award” was selected by a panel of teens from an adolescent-run movement called “Goodnight to the Grind,” a project officially connected with HOSA-Future Health Professionals to raise awareness about insomnia and sleep debt. Monetary prizes for each winning video are split evenly between the student and his or her school.
Along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, sleep is one of the pillars of a healthy lifestyle. Getting sufficient sleep on a regular basis is essential for health, well-being, and mood. The AASM 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.
First Place ($1,000)
Sarah Liu, 11th grade
Kami Bohlinger, teacher
Newport High School
Bellevue, WA
View Video on TikTok
Second Place ($500)
William Smith, 10th grade
Ashley Brown, teacher
Dothan High School
Dothan, AL
Teen’s Choice Award ($250)
Desirae Puga, 10th grade
Kristin Swanke, teacher
Ceres High School
Modesto, CA
Get more information about the AASM High School Video Contest, and view winning videos from previous years, by visiting the Sleep Education website.
About the American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Established in 1975, the AASM advances sleep care and enhances sleep health to improve lives. The AASM has a combined membership of 12,000 accredited sleep centers and individuals, including physicians, scientists and other health care professionals who care for patients with sleep disorders. As the leader in the sleep field, the AASM sets standards and promotes excellence in sleep medicine health care, education and research.
