The links between ADHD and sleep issues are still unclear, as is the cause of ADHD in general. Both the symptoms of ADHD and some of its medications can affect sleeping patterns. Also, “sleep deprivation…can worsen ADHD symptoms.” Nearly 50% of kids with ADHD suffer from some sort of sleep problem and nearly 75% of adults with ADHD reported suffering from insomnia.

Common Sleep Problems Associated with ADHD:

  • Anxiety or resistance about bedtime (in children)
  • Difficulty falling asleep at night
  • Difficulty waking up in the morning
  • Sleep-disordered breathing and sleep apnea
  • Interrupted sleep (waking up during the night)
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
  • Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)
  • Delayed sleep-phase disorder
  • Higher rates of nightmares
  • More likely than average to experience parasomnias like sleepwalking

Treatments for these ADHD-related sleep issues include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication management. Contact Dr. Bharagava’s office to see if these treatments may help you or your child’s ADHD symptoms.

Source: “ADHD and Sleep” by Tuck.com

Gabby Lundy, Exult Healthcare