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How do sleep disorders relate to ADHD symptoms? 

PostedAugust 21, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

The connection between sleep disorders and ADHD is well documented, with many children and adults experiencing difficulties falling or staying asleep. Problems like insomnia, fragmented sleep, and daytime fatigue can make it harder to manage ADHD symptoms and may even worsen focus, mood, and behaviour. 

Addressing ADHD sleep issues such as restless sleep is an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

Take an ADHD test now

How Sleep Problems Affect ADHD 

This is how sleep disorders and ADHD are linked. 

Difficulty falling asleep 

Many people with ADHD experience insomnia, often due to racing thoughts, hyperactivity, or delayed melatonin production. 

Restless sleep and frequent waking 

Individuals may experience restless sleep, even at night, which lowers sleep quality and causes tiredness and irritability the following day. 

Impact on ADHD symptoms 

Poor sleep can exacerbate inattention, impulsivity, and emotional outbursts, creating a cycle of worsening ADHD sleep issues. 

Importance of good sleep hygiene 

Setting regular routines, reducing screen time before bed, and creating a calm environment can improve both sleep quality and ADHD symptoms. 

If sleep problems are affecting you or your child, seeking support can make a real difference. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and advice on managing sleep disorders and ADHD effectively.

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

Take an ADHD test now
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. 

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