Does CBT help ADHD-related sleep issues?

Yes, CBT sleep ADHD therapy can be an effective solution for tackling the sleep difficulties many people with ADHD face. Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, and irregular sleep patterns are common in both children and adults with ADHD, often fuelled by racing thoughts, restlessness, or inconsistent bedtime routines.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that interfere with sleep. For people with CBT sleep ADHD challenges, this often means identifying habits that disrupt rest and replacing them with strategies that promote a calm and predictable wind-down routine.

CBT can be particularly helpful for breaking cycles of frustration or anxiety around bedtime. By creating a structured approach to sleep, it helps reduce nighttime stress and build healthier sleep habits over time.

How CBT Supports Better Sleep for People with ADHD

CBT techniques are designed to create more restful, consistent nights. Here are a few ways this therapy can support sleep:

Regulating bedtime routines

CBT encourages the development of consistent evening habits, such as setting a regular sleep schedule or limiting screen time. These routines help the body recognise when it is time to relax.

Managing sleep-related anxiety

People with ADHD may dread bedtime because of past struggles falling asleep. CBT offers strategies to reduce this worry and create a more positive association with sleep.

Addressing insomnia through behaviour change

CBT helps identify behaviours that might be making insomnia worse, like late-night snacking or napping during the day, and offers alternatives to improve sleep quality.

To get personal support for sleep and ADHD, visit providers like ADHD Certify for practical tools and expert consultation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).