If your little ones snore, it could be a sign that they feel depressed or anxious or struggle with language issues, according to a new report. Researchers from Helsinki University Central Hospital say children ages 3 to 6 who snore have more depression, anxiety and trouble speaking as compared with their playmates who don’t snore.

During the study, researchers examined 43 preschoolers who snored at least once or twice a week and 46 preschoolers who didn’t snore. Researchers found that 22 percent of the children who snored had severe mood disorder symptoms compared with 11 percent of the children who didn’t snore. Tests also revealed that snorers had decreased attention spans and language skills.

“This makes intervening possible before [children begin] underachieving at school or before more difficult emotional and/or behavioral symptoms develop,” said Eeva Aronen, MD, of Helsinki University Central Hospital.

Read RH’s “Snoring Can Be a Serious Health Issue.”