What Sleep Disorders Are Commonly Mistaken for ADHD? 

Sleep disorders and ADHD may be confused at times due to overlapping symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis. Both conditions can involve difficulty focusing, irritability, and impulsivity, which makes it challenging for clinicians to differentiate between them. Understanding which sleep disorders commonly mimic ADHD symptoms can help in making a more accurate diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes. 

Common Sleep Disorders Mistaken for ADHD 

One of the most common sleep disorders that can be confused with ADHD is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to poor-quality rest and daytime fatigue. People with sleep apnea may have trouble staying focused, just like those with ADHD, and may appear easily distracted or forgetful. 

Another sleep disorder that often mimics ADHD is restless leg syndrome (RLS). RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, particularly at night, leading to disrupted sleep. The resulting sleep deprivation can cause daytime drowsiness, poor concentration, and emotional instability, all of which can resemble ADHD symptoms.  

Misdiagnosis and Similar Symptoms 

The misdiagnosis of sleep disorders as ADHD can occur when the focus is solely on daytime symptoms without considering the underlying sleep issues. Sleep disturbances often exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, but treating the sleep disorder alone can sometimes resolve attention and behaviour problems.  

In conclusion, sleep disorders and ADHD can share the same symptomology. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome, can mimic ADHD symptoms. A comprehensive assessment that considers sleep patterns is essential for distinguishing between the two and ensuring an accurate diagnosis. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.