ADHD and insomnia: A complex relationship

Approximately 66.8% of adults with ADHD experience insomnia, a sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.^[1] This lack of sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms.

But does ADHD cause insomnia, or does insomnia cause ADHD?

Summary

• Many people with ADHD struggle with insomnia, making daily life harder.
• Lack of sleep worsens ADHD, increasing hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
• Low dopamine and norepinephrine in ADHD disrupt sleep regulation.
• ADHD and insomnia share symptoms like poor focus, fatigue, and mood swings, making diagnosis more challenging.
• ADHD is often managed with prescribed medication, while insomnia can be supported through sleep hygiene, cognitive therapy, or sleep-regulating supplements.

Jump to:

1. What’s the link?
2. Symptoms and diagnosis
3. Management

References:

1. Wajszilber, D., Santiseban, J. A., & Gruber, R. (2018). Sleep disorders in patients with ADHD: Impact and management challenges. Nature and Science of Sleep, 10, 453.