ADHD tends to – although does not always – get more manageable in adulthood. Researchers are mixed on whether ADHD ever truly “Goes Away” but most people tend to find a reduction in some of its worst symptoms as well as the ability to manage ADHD symptoms better as they get older.
Still, because these individuals still have ADHD, it is possible to still experience some symptoms, as well as find that symptoms are worsening, and one of the most common causes of this is a lack of sleep.
How Sleep Affects ADHD
Sleep is important, often more important than we realize. Most of us are aware that we need sleep to restore our bodies and, of course, so we do not feel sick and tired, but a *lack* of sleep can do much more than that.
Chronic poor sleep can actually create symptoms that mimic ADHD.
Individuals without ADHD that struggle with poor sleep often find that they struggle with issues that are very similar to those with ADHD and executive function disorder, including poor focus and concentration, memory loss, poor task initiation, and more.
So when an individual *has* ADHD, and struggles with poor sleep, the results can be even more pronounced. Part of what helps us keep our ADHD manageable is that we’re in more control over our lives and needs in adulthood, but if we’re not sleeping, and we already have ADHD, then the parts of our brains that have been successful in managing the symptoms are no longer functioning.
- Memory Loss
- Poor Decision Making
- Rapid Thoughts/Difficulty Concentrating
- Trouble Focusing
Everything that we associate with ADHD then runs the risk of becoming worse. In addition, because ADHD can lead to difficulty getting things done, many people stay up late, which in turn means that they become more at risk for further sleep deprivation.
What’s Next?
Sleep is only one of many possible triggers for ADHD in adults with both treated and untreated ADHD. But it is a powerful one, and becoming increasingly common now that so many of us are not getting the sleep we need every night.
Finding more time to sleep is going to help you reduce these excess symptoms. But if you’re having trouble sleeping due to anxiety, ADHD, stress, or other issues – it may be helpful to talk to a therapist. Reach out to our team at Right Path Counseling today to learn more.
