Attention Talk Radio

ADHD and Sleep: It’s Complicated, Part 1

Feb 26, 2020
Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a Harvard lecturer and ADHD expert, dives into the complex relationship between ADHD and sleep. He discusses biological sleep processes and emphasizes how sleep acts as a brain 'defrag' to enhance learning. The conversation explores ADHD-related sleep challenges, including executive function issues and stimulation-seeking behaviors that disrupt bedtime. Olivardia explains various sleep disorders linked to ADHD, including sleep apnea and restless legs, while providing insights on treatment options and the importance of sleep hygiene.
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INSIGHT

Sleep Is An Active Reboot

  • Sleep is an active biological process that consolidates memory, regulates hormones, and boosts immunity.
  • Roberto Olivardia compares sleep to a brain "defrag" that readies us for the next day.
INSIGHT

Sleep And Executive Functioning

  • Maintaining sleep schedules requires executive function and sleep loss impairs executive skills.
  • Olivardia suggests sleep problems are so common they might belong in ADHD diagnostic considerations.
INSIGHT

Transitioning To Sleep Takes Work

  • Going to sleep needs planned transitions and mental surrender, which demand executive control.
  • People with ADHD struggle because their minds keep racing and resist the boredom of sleep onset.
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