Sleep disorders are common in children and adults with ADHD. Poor sleep worsens inattention, restlessness and emotions. Taking care of sleep is therefore essential. Here is what you need to know. Looking after sleep is one of the simplest levers to help in everyday life.
Many people with ADHD find it hard to fall asleep, wake up during the night or have sleep that is not restful. Their internal clock is sometimes out of step. These difficulties can add to those of the day.
To find out more, read our article What is ADHD.
Lack of sleep worsens difficulties with attention, irritability and restlessness. It can give the impression that ADHD is getting worse. Improving sleep often improves attention.
We explain this point in more detail in ADHD and fatigue.
In some children, a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnoea, can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. The doctor takes this into account during diagnosis. That is why it is important to mention it during the assessment.
This subject is covered in our page ADHD: when to be concerned.
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Regular times, a bedtime routine, no screens in the evening, physical activity during the day, a calm bedroom: these habits often improve sleep. These habits require consistency.
You will find more details in the article ADHD and bedtime.
Some ADHD treatments can affect sleep. If you notice difficulties, talk to the doctor, who can adjust the timing or the form. Never change treatment without medical advice.
Our article ADHD medication: parents’ questions complements this advice.
In adults with ADHD, late bedtimes, hyperfocus in the evening and screens often disrupt sleep. Reminders to go to bed can help.
To explore further, see ADHD in adults.
Snoring, breathing pauses, frequent waking and daytime drowsiness: these signs should be reported to the doctor. A sleep assessment can sometimes be useful.
The article ADHD: the role of the GP covers this question in detail.
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Yes, sleep disorders are common in ADHD. Sleep disorders are common.
Yes, the doctor takes this into account during diagnosis. They worsen the symptoms.
With regular times, a routine and no screens in the evening. Good habits help.
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