Can ADHD Cause Sleep Problems?

PostedOctober 13, 2025

UpdatedOctober 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, ADHD sleep problems are common among individuals with the condition. The symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, can interfere with a person’s ability to relax and sleep soundly. Sleep disturbances like insomnia and restless sleep are often experienced by those with ADHD, affecting both children and adults. These issues can lead to a cycle of fatigue and difficulty functioning during the day.

How ADHD Affects Sleep

Here’s how ADHD can affect sleep:

Difficulty Falling Asleep

People with ADHD often find it challenging to unwind at night due to hyperactivity or racing thoughts. This can lead to insomnia, where individuals struggle to fall asleep, even when they’re physically tired. The inability to “turn off” the mind makes it difficult to relax and settle into sleep.

Restlessness During Sleep

Even after falling asleep, individuals with ADHD may experience restless sleep. They might toss and turn or wake up frequently during the night, leading to fragmented and unrefreshing rest. This disrupted sleep cycle can contribute to daytime sleepiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Difficulty Waking Up

For many with ADHD, waking up in the morning can be challenging, as the body and mind are still adjusting after a poor night’s sleep. This can result in grogginess, making it hard to start the day, especially if there is already a lack of sufficient rest.

Managing ADHD Sleep Problems

Managing ADHD sleep problems involves a combination of strategies, including establishing a consistent bedtime routine, reducing screen time before sleep, and addressing any underlying symptoms of ADHD with medication or therapy.

In conclusion, improving sleep hygiene can help individuals with ADHD get more restful sleep, which, in turn, can improve focus and mood.

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 Signs, Symptoms, and Self-identification 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.