362 The Science of ADHD Sleep: Circadian Rhythms, Sunlight, and Why You’re So Tired

If you have ADHD and sleep feels like a constant struggle, you’re not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone. Research shows that 70–80% of adults with ADHD have chronic sleep problems, most commonly falling asleep too late and being unable to shift earlier, no matter how hard they try. For many of us, this pattern starts in childhood and is deeply tied to our biology.

In this solo episode, I explain why ADHD brains are wired for later sleep, how “social jetlag” (early school and work schedules) creates ongoing sleep debt, and why so many ADHD adults are surviving on 5–6 hours of sleep when our brains actually need more. The tricky part? The symptoms of sleep deprivation—poor focus, low motivation, memory issues, irritability, and emotional dysregulation—look almost identical to ADHD itself.

We dive into chronotherapy, a science-based approach that works with your circadian rhythm instead of fighting it. I break down how light exposure, strategic timing, and gentle sleep-wake adjustments can help regulate your internal clock without perfectionism or rigid routines.

And yes—we talk about sunlight. Morning light is one of the most powerful (and overlooked) tools for ADHD regulation. I share how light therapy glasses, sun lamps, melatonin, and intentional light exposure can support better sleep, better focus, and a calmer nervous system overall.

If you’ve been blaming yourself for sleep issues your brain never signed up for, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a much more realistic path forward.

Watch this episode on YouTube

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