✦ A history of snoring or possible obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during childhood is associated with a twofold likelihood of having ADHD ( Wajszilber, 2018). ✦ Adults with narcolepsy have two times the likelihood of ADHD compared with controls ( Ohayon, 2013). ✦ Circadian rhythm and melatonin disruptions are more common among ADHDers ( Coogan et al., 2016). ✦ Dopaminergic abnormalities and iron deficiency are thought to underlie the co-occurrence of ADHD and RLS Konofal et al., 2010 ✦ 44% of ADHDers have been found to have RLS or RLS symptoms, and up to 26% of subjects with RLS were found to have ADHD or ADHD symptoms (Konofal et al., 2010). ✦ As many as 83% of ADHDers experience sleep disturbances, including nonspecific sleep disruptions, parasomnias, hypersomnia, and limb movement disorders ( Sobanski et al., 2008). ✦ ADHD is associated with increased rates of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), restless leg syndrome (RLS), circadian rhythm sleep disorders (CRSDs), insomnia, and narcolepsy ( Wajszilber, 2018). Here is a rundown of some of the numbers and studies that have looked at ADHD and sleep: Okay, and now for the infographic here is the rundown of several studies that have looked at ADHD and sleep issues. It includes strategies for managing sleep issues and vulnerabilities. ✦ Circadian rhythm sleep disorders (CRSD)įor a more detailed exploration of how neurodivergence can affect sleep, check out my in-depth article here. ✦ Insomnia (difficulty with sleep onset, night waking) ✦ Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and limb movement disorders

✦ Sleep breathing disorders (SBD) and sleep apnea In this infographic, we'll explore some of the most common sleep issues that people with ADHD experience, including: Unfortunately, sleep problems are often left untreated, despite being a common issue among ADHDers (Wajszilber et al., 2018).Īlthough researchers first noticed the link between ADHD and sleep disturbances in the 1950s, it was not until more recently that studies began to explore the extent of the overlap. As someone who has lived with ADHD and sleep issues, I understand how frustrating it can be. If you have ADHD, you may know firsthand how challenging it can be to get a good night's sleep.

Narcolepsy infographic