Summer Sleep Tips for ADHD

People with ADHD often complain of insomnia.  There are a number of sleep disorders that can make it difficult for people with ADHD to get to sleep, including restless legs.  However, even if there is no sleep disorder in the mix, folks with ADHD often complain of difficulty settling down and calming their minds so they can drift off.

Summer time can be especially difficult.  Being overheated can contribute, as can the extra daylight.  Some children get overexcited from being outside later at night, or can fall victim to summer couch potato-itis.  If you or your child have difficulty sleeping these days, try these tips.

1)  Make sure your child gets plenty of exercise during the day.  At least an hour of physical activity is needed by most children for optimum health benefits.
2)  Cool things down.  Splurge on a little extra air conditioning, if possible.
3)  Darken the bedroom.  Shades work the best, but black out curtains are also very effective.  If neither are an option, try hanging a blanket or towel over the window.
4)  Avoid excitement after dinner, if possible.
5)  Try listening to a relaxation CD.  If that does not help, try an audio like these from Excel at Life.  Go to the menu and look under "PsychAudios".  They have Relaxation Audios for adults and children.  While these were designed to help people with depression to relax, they work well for anyone to calm their mind.    The audios are also available on Excel at Life's Android App, available on Google Play.
6)  Practice good sleep hygiene--follow a strict sleep schedule to train your body to release sleeping hormones at bedtime.


Everything ADHD Medical Disclaimer
Everything ADHD Privacy Policy