5 Sleep Problems ADHDers Know Too Well
Sleep is a challenge for those of us with ADHD. There are many ways it can be a struggle. Here are 5 of the most common sleep problems ADHDers face.
1.) Trouble Falling Asleep
The ADHD brain races and races. Dr. Ned Hallowell likes to describe it as a race car brain with bicycle breaks. Because of this, it is hard for the ADHD brain to slow down and go to sleep. This causes many frustratingly sleepless hours.
2.) Trouble Getting Out of Bed in the Morning
For whatever reason, it is hard for the ADHD brain to wake up and feel alert in the morning. This might mean sleeping through one’s alarm or just laying there listening to the alarm go off. Sleep inertia is a real problem for those of us with ADHD. We stay in bed longer than we should because of how our brains are not ready for the morning.
3.) Daytime Sleepiness
Because of the problems we have falling asleep and getting out of bed on time, those of us with ADHD experience more daytime sleepiness than neurotypicals. This makes it harder to concentrate, which is already difficult for ADHDers.
4.) Sleep Disorders
It is quite common for those of us with ADHD to have a sleep disorder. Whether it is sleep apnea, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, or any other of the 80 known sleep disorders, sleep may be difficult or not as restful as it could be for ADHDers. It is a good idea to get a sleep study if you have ADHD.
5.) Typical Sleep Advice Doesn’t Work for the ADHD Brain
The ADHD brain is wired differently. That means it needs a different solution than the neurotypical solution for most issues. This applies to sleep. A lot of typical sleep hygiene advice is not useful for those with ADHD. Whereas, my new video series on ADHD and sleep is designed with the ADHD brain in mind. Check it out today!