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Are sleep disorders common in individuals with hyperactivity due to ADHD? 

Sleep problems are a frequent concern for people with ADHD, and ADHD sleep issues often make hyperactivity and inattention worse. Many children and adults with ADHD find it hard to relax, which can lead to chronic fatigue and impaired functioning the next day.  

Understanding the connection between hyperactivity and rest, and how insomnia ADHD affects overall sleep quality, is essential. Restlessness and overactive minds can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, creating a cycle of fatigue and increased symptoms. 

Common Sleep Challenges in ADHD 

Here are some ways ADHD sleep difficulties manifest and what can help address them: 

Difficulty Falling Asleep 

Many Individuals with ADHD struggle to quiet their minds at night, leading to insomnia. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and limiting screen time can improve sleep onset. 

Frequent Night Wakings 

Even after falling asleep, individuals may wake up repeatedly, disrupting restorative rest. Behavioural strategies and, in some cases, medication adjustments can help. 

Daytime Sleepiness 

Poor sleep quality often results in low energy and irritability during the day, which can increase hyperactivity. Practising good sleep hygiene and managing hyperactivity earlier in the evening may reduce this. 

Addressing sleep challenges is an important part of managing ADHD as a whole. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and guidance on improving sleep alongside other treatments.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity. 

Victoria Rowe, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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.