Sleep is an important factor in maintaining optimal mental health, but studies have shown that approximately 20% of adults do not get enough of it. While the occasional night of insufficient sleep is unlikely to cause harm, chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a number of mental and physical health complications, including and an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other serious medical conditions. Many people with ADHD in particular suffer from sleep deprivation, which then exacerbates their ADHD symptoms, resulting in a cycle of exhaustion and further difficulty managing their condition.
ADHD and sleep problems
ADHD, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that affects a person’s ability to concentrate, pay attention, and control impulsive behavior. ADHD is also linked with a number of sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, sleeping soundly, and waking up. In many cases, addressing sleep difficulties in people with ADHD is most effective when treatment involves both medication for sleep and a variety of practices and habits to support quality sleep.
Medications to aid with sleep must be chosen carefully because they can result in dramatically different effects, depending on the individual. For example, a single medication can have a calming effect on one person and a stimulating effect on another. It’s important to work with a doctor to determine the right medications for inducing relaxation and sleep. Doctor recommendations of sleep aids for individuals with ADHD often include medications in unexpected categories, such as:
- Stimulant-class medications
- Antihistamines
- Blood pressure medications
- Antidepressant medications
Some individuals have to try more than one medication before they find something that works for them. But healthy routines and habits are also an important part of getting a sufficient amount of sleep every night.
Healthy routines and habits for sufficient sleep with ADHD
The exact prescription for a healthy sleep routine will depend on the individual, but there are some general principles that can be beneficial to just about anyone who is having difficulty sleeping. These include:
- Consistent wake-sleep schedule. It’s important to stick to a consistent sleep schedule to help maintain the body’s internal clock.
- Calming pre-sleep routine. Dim lighting and relaxing activities can help prime the body and brain for sleep.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as both can have a disruptive effect on sleep.
- Regular exercise. A healthy exercise routine can help improve sleep, but most people find it’s best to avoid exercising right before bed.
- Personal comforts and aids. These may include blackout shades, eye shades, ear plugs, white noise machines, and other aids specific to the individual’s needs and preferences.
All people who suffer from sleep deprivation are at risk of moodiness and an inability to concentrate, but it can be especially problematic for those with ADHD because they’re more prone to attention and concentration difficulties to begin with. Additionally, sleep deprivation can interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications.
If you have ADHD and you’re stuck in a cycle of exhaustion from sleep deprivation, it could be time to try something new. Participating in an ADHD clinical research trial may help you gain access to new treatments before they’re available to the public.
ADHD Clinical Research Trial in San Diego
At Synergy Research Centers, we’re currently enrolling for an ADHD clinical trial to help researchers find more effective solutions than those currently available. Participants must be 18 or older and have received an ADHD diagnosis from a licensed psychologist, psychiatrist, or neurologist. Participants will receive compensation for time and travel. For more information on the study or to find out if you’re eligible, please fill out our form or give us a call at (888) 539-0282 today.