Are Sleep Disorders Common in Children with Autism?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, sleep disorders in autism are common and affect a significant number of children with the condition. Research indicates that autism in children often comes with disruptions in sleep, including issues like night waking, difficulty falling asleep, and insomnia. These sleep problems are not simply related to behavioural issues but are often linked to sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation difficulties, and anxiety, which are common in children with autism.

Children with autism may struggle with getting quality sleep due to overstimulation from their environment, discomfort with their sleep setting, or difficulty calming down before bedtime. This lack of rest can lead to increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, and challenges with behaviour during the day.

How Sleep Disorders in Autism Manifest

Here’s typical ways sleep disorders manifest in autistic children:

Night Waking:

Many children with autism experience frequent waking during the night, often requiring assistance to fall back asleep.

Insomnia:

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is common, with children often taking longer than usual to settle down.

Sleep Disruption:

Even when children with autism manage to sleep, their rest may be fragmented, leading to fatigue and behavioural challenges during the day.

Recognising sleep disorders in autism can help caregivers address these issues and improve both sleep and daytime functioning. For expert advice and tailored consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support specific to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.