Do Sleep Problems Suggest Undiagnosed Adult Autism?

PostedNovember 6, 2025

UpdatedNovember 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Sleep issues in adult autism are common yet often overlooked as a potential sign of undiagnosed autism. Many adults with autism experience difficulties with sleep, including trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or having disrupted sleep patterns. These undiagnosed symptoms can often be attributed to other causes, such as stress or anxiety, without considering the possibility of autism. However, sleep disturbances can be an important behavioural sign of adult presentation of autism.

Adults with autism may struggle with sleep due to sensory sensitivities, overstimulation, or inability to relax. These challenges, often linked to the way autism affects sensory processing and emotional regulation, can lead to significant sleep difficulties. Since these issues are not always recognised as part of the condition, they may go unaddressed, leaving individuals frustrated and fatigued.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Issues in Adult Autism

Here are some signs that sleep problems may be linked to undiagnosed autism:

Difficulty with Sleep Onset:

Adults with autism may struggle to fall asleep due to an overactive mind or heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or temperature. Cognitive techniques and environmental adjustments can help improve sleep quality.

Frequent Night Wakings:

Waking up multiple times during the night is common in adults with autism. These disruptions may be caused by sensory sensitivities or anxiety. A structured bedtime routine and relaxation techniques can help manage these disruptions.

Restless Sleep:

Adults with autism may experience restless sleep, marked by tossing and turning. Understanding the root causes of this behaviour, such as sensory overload, can help manage these symptoms more effectively.

For personalised support, visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations tailored to your needs.

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

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

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.