Sleep Disorders and ADHD

Sleep disorders and ADHD often go hand-in-hand, with one problem feeding into the other. Individuals who have attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder may be more likely to have trouble sleeping. Those who have trouble sleeping are more likely to have daytime disturbances that are similar to the symptoms of ADHD.

What are Sleep Disorders?

A sleep disorder is any condition that prevents an individual from getting proper rest throughout the night. Conditions vary, ranging from neurological conditions like narcolepsy to minor disturbances like snoring. These conditions are often associated with daytime sleepiness, fatigue and mood disorders.

It makes perfect sense that a person who does not receive enough sleep is unable to function properly the following day. Signs of sleep deprivation include the inability to concentrate, easily distracted and irritability. Some people who are sleep-deprived my be less able to control impulses.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, a condition that is very troublesome for the affected individual. Symptoms of the disorder include:

• Fails to notice details
• Unable to stay on task during work or play activities
• Does not seem to listen to oral directions
• Fails to reciprocate conversations appropriately
• Forgetful
• Easily distracted
• Resists mentally-challenging activities
• Loses things easily
• Unable to finish tasks

In addition to the attention problems, people with ADHD also experience troubles with hyperactivity and impulsiveness:

• Fidgets
• Unable to sit still
• Restless
• Moves frequently
• Difficulty being quiet
• Talks excessively
• Interrupts others
The symptoms must interfere with the person’s functioning in social, educational, or work settings.

Sleep Disorders and ADHD

Many of the symptoms of ADHD naturally interfere with the sleep cycle. A person who is distracted and restless is likely to have difficulty falling asleep well. Insomnia and other sleep disturbances may be related to the neurological condition of ADHD.

The person’s brain seems to run into overdrive, with the inability to calm and focus the mind enough to calm and organize behavior. The restless nature of ADHD makes it a perfect recipe for sleep problems, sometimes leading to a sleep disorder.

Problems that may exist with sleep and ADHD include:

• Inability to fall asleep
• Failing and kicking during sleep
• Talking in sleep
• Unable to stay asleep
• Waking without feeling rested
• Sleepwalking
• Sleep deprivation
• Irritability
• Excessive impulsivity
• Unusual behavior
• Unable to focus
• Poor social skills

Treating Sleep Problems

People with ADHD can benefit from treating any sleep disorder that may develop. It can be difficult to detect some sleep problems since the signs of sleep deprivation often mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

Ideally, good sleep hygiene combined with consistency is common practice. Setting a nighttime routine that you follow on a consistent basis can help. Avoid taking medications, drinking caffeine or engaging in stimulating activities at least three hours before bedtime. In some instances, a sleep study can help determine which approaches will benefit you the most.