#82 - Sleep and ADHD with Dr. Jessica Lunsford-Avery

Biological Factors

Dr. Jessica Lunsford-Avery explains that up to 80% of children with ADHD experience sleep issues, including difficulties falling and staying asleep, and inconsistent sleep patterns. These problems are influenced by both biological and behavioral factors, such as circadian rhythm disruptions and oppositional behaviors. She highlights that adolescents with ADHD have less slow wave sleep, which is crucial for cognitive performance and overall well-being 1 2.

The degree of the deficit in slow wave activity was predicting something about the waking brain function and particularly the cognitive abilities of those individuals with ADHD.

--- Jessica Lunsford-Avery

Addressing these sleep issues could significantly improve ADHD symptoms and cognitive function in affected children.

   

Behavioral Factors

Behavioral factors, such as technology use, play a significant role in sleep issues among adolescents with ADHD. Dr. Lunsford-Avery notes that impulsivity makes it harder for these adolescents to turn off technology at night, exacerbating sleep problems. She also discusses the potential of digital interventions to improve sleep regularity and psychiatric health 3 4.

Technology can provide new opportunities to increase access to evidence-based behavioral sleep treatments.

--- Jessica Lunsford-Avery

These interventions could be a valuable tool in managing sleep and ADHD symptoms, offering hope for better outcomes.