Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been linked to sleep disorders, but the connection is unclear. Also unclear is the extent of influence one disorder has on the other. Both ADHD and sleep disorders can cause behavioral issues. Children who are identified in one of the groups has a higher incidence of receiving a diagnosis of the other disorder.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a neuro-developmental disorder that affects behavior. It is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. The causes of ADHD are unknown. However, research has indicated the cause is of biological origin.
ADHD can interfere with a child's schoolwork and social activities. The child may have a hard time trying to focus on a task long enough to complete it. Treatment options appear to focus on teaching the older child to identify his weaknesses and make his own accommodations for them. For example, if an older child knows he forgets things easily, he should identify a solution that works for him.
Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD can manifest in a variety of ways. Some of the symptoms commonly associated with the disorder are acting without thinking; hyperactivity; and trouble focusing, following instructions, sitting still, paying attention or attending to details.
All children have these behaviors from time to time. However, symptoms of a child with ADHD will be present for longer periods of time and will occur across all environments.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep is necessary for us to function mentally and physically. A lack of sleep can have severe detrimental effects. The immune system doesn't function normally. The body is not prepared and rested enough to learn when a sleep disorder is preventing sleep.
To alleviate sleep disorders you can try to establish a routine before going to bed, have a relaxation time and cut out caffeine in the evenings. Sometime medication may be needed to help you fall asleep.
Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders have several symptoms. Insomnia (lack of sleep), sleep apnea (disturbed sleep), narcolepsy (lack of sleep), restless leg syndrome and negative behaviors are all symptoms. Each of these can cause further symptoms to develop and can become dangerous. Sleep disorders can usually be managed if the source of the problem is identified.
Link Between Sleep Disorders and ADHD
Further studies are needed before a definitive answer can be reached. For some people who have not successfully managed their ADHD through medication or behavior management, sleep disorders may be the underlying cause to their behavior. Others may have been wrongly diagnosed and treated for sleep disorders when the actual underlying cause was ADHD. Sleep deprivation in children can result in inattentiveness, moodiness and hyperactivity. At this point it is unknown if sleep disturbances are creating some cases of children being diagnosed with ADHD or if the ADHD is causing the sleep disturbance.
