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For people living with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), sleep isn't always as simple as lying down and drifting off. In fact, many of our customers dealing with ADHD describe their nights as a constant tug-of-war between fatigue and restlessness.
If that sounds like you or someone in your household, you're not alone, and we're here to help. Let's discuss more about how ADHD impacts sleep.
The Link Between ADHD and Sleep Problems
People with ADHD often struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up feeling rested. These issues don't just affect kids; adults with ADHD face them, too. According to a study, up to 75% of individuals with ADHD have sleep-related challenges.
Why does this happen? ADHD affects the brain's executive functions, including the ability to regulate attention, emotions, and activity levels. This often includes difficulty managing internal cues for sleep, like winding down in the evening or recognizing when you're tired.
Common Sleep Issues for Those With ADHD:
- Delayed sleep phase syndrome (staying up too late)
- Restless legs syndrome (especially in children)
- Frequent nighttime awakenings
- Sleep anxiety or racing thoughts at bedtime
- Difficulty waking up in the morning
Even worse, poor sleep can intensify ADHD symptoms, creating a cycle of hyperactivity, mood swings, and fatigue that's hard to break.
The Science Behind the Struggle
There are both neurological and behavioral reasons why ADHD affects sleep. Studies show individuals with ADHD often have dysregulated melatonin production, meaning their bodies don't release the "sleep hormone" at the right time. Cortisol, the "stress hormone," can also spike in the evenings, making it hard to relax.
And then there's screen time, which can be particularly disruptive for people with ADHD. The blue light from phones and tablets interferes with melatonin release, and the mental stimulation from social media or gaming makes it hard to wind down.
What You Can Do: Tips for Better Sleep With ADHD
Here's what we've learned from working with countless customers who deal with ADHD-related sleep issues.
1. Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even weekends!) helps regulate your body's internal clock. This consistency can be especially helpful for kids and teens with ADHD.
2. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
This might include:
- A warm shower or bath
- Light stretching or yoga
- Reading a physical book (not on a screen)
- Listening to calming music or white noise
3. Cut Off Caffeine and Sugar Early
Avoiding stimulants in the afternoon and evening can reduce hyperactivity and help calm your nervous system before bed.
4. Make the Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary
A calm, clutter-free sleep environment can help anyone relax, but it's especially important for people with ADHD, who may be more sensitive to noise, light, or discomfort.
How the Right Mattress Makes a Difference
If you have ADHD or a family member who does, your mattress should work with you, not against you. That means proper spinal support, temperature regulation, and comfort that minimizes tossing and turning.
Here are a few of our most recommended features for ADHD-related sleep issues:
1. Pressure-Relieving Memory Foam
Memory foam, like the kind in our Puffy mattresses, offers excellent contouring and pressure relief. It molds to the body, reducing restlessness, which is great for people who struggle to settle into a comfortable position.
2. Cooling Technology
Overheating at night is a common complaint for individuals with ADHD. That's why our Back Supporter Hybrid and Puffy Lux Hybrid are favorites as they feature advanced cooling layers to keep your temperature regulated.
3. Motion Isolation
If you're a light sleeper or share your bed with someone else, mattresses with motion-isolating technology like those from Stearns & Foster can keep you from waking up every time your partner shifts.
For Kids With ADHD
Our selection of twin and full-size mattresses for children includes soft yet supportive options with hypoallergenic materials. This is especially helpful for sensory-sensitive kiddos who are easily disturbed by textures or sounds.
Need help deciding? Our Mattress Quiz is a great place to start, or book a one-on-one consultation with our sleep experts at our North Miami Beach location.
Final Thoughts
ADHD and sleep problems often go hand in hand, but that doesn't mean restful nights are out of reach. With the right environment, a consistent routine, and a mattress tailored to your needs, better sleep is possible.
At Aventura Mattress, we're here to help you find the mattress that brings peace, comfort, and rest back into your nights. Stop by our North Miami Beach showroom or shop online anytime to explore mattresses from top brands.