Sleep researcher and Palo Alto High School parent Dr. Jed Black, M.D. will discuss the benefits of sleep for students at Sleepless in Palo Alto 2: The Gunn Sequel at 7 p.m. on Thursday in the Henry M. Gunn High School library.

Black has treated patients and taught trainees about the importance of sleep.

“The talk is targeted to address the unique features of sleep during adolescence and the types of sleep disorders and problems that this age group is particularly prone to,” Black said.

Some of these unique features of sleep include its ability to affect mental health, athletic performance, driving safety, and weight management. Black will cover the benefits of sleep and also some conditions teenagers may have.

“My research and clinical work spans a variety of different conditions and disorders that include sleep apnea and circadian rhythm disorder,” Black said.

According to Ruth-Anne Siegel, Gunn parent education co-chair, the first part of the talk was hosted at Paly in October, but had few attendees due to a concurrent World Series game. The Gunn Parent Teacher Student Association organized this event to provide the Palo Alto community with another opportunity to hear Black speak.

“We just want to give people a good overview of how they can help their children get a better night’s sleep,” Siegel said.

Thursday’s event is free and open to everyone in the Palo Alto Unified School District. The organizers recommend arriving early, as space is limited.