While there is no direct link between lack of sleep and ADHD, they often present in similar ways. If your child is displaying ADHD-like symptoms and struggles with sleep, it’s a good idea to address this and see if makes a difference.
If you’re reading this and your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, working on their sleep routine could hugely improve the presentation of their symptoms.
The connection is obvious
Trouble paying attention; impulsive behaviour and forgetfulness are often signs of ADHD – but they can also be signs of lack of sleep.
Children with sleep difficulties, who have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night, may experience anxiety or even night terrors. For these kids, morning times tend to be challenging and they may also display irritability throughout the day. Many have trouble paying attention in nursery or school and act out or throw tantrums. It’s easy to understand how ADHD and lack of sleep can be confused.
To compound things, children with ADHD often have trouble sleeping due to excess energy or medication which interferes with sleep.
Because symptoms can look so similar, it’s important your doctor rules out sleep disorders before diagnosing ADHD.
