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Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that impacts a person’s day-to-day life including their sleep.
Meanwhile,studieshave found that sleep problems are the most common co-occurring conditions experienced by autistic individuals.
But why exactly are sleep difficulties so prevalent within the autistic community?
To find out, we turned to sleep expert Dr Dagmara Dimitriou.
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How does autism affect sleep?
We are also seeing nightmares more frequently in autistic children than non-autistic children."
“We know from our data that autistic individuals will be waking up for prolonged periods of time.”
Autism can affect sleep in a number of direct and indirect ways.
However, here are some common ways autism can disrupt sleep:
1.
Sensory issues and sleep environment
Researchhas found that many autistic adults associate their lack of sleep with sensory issues.
They may need different sensory aids to help them to sleep as well."
Nighttime anxiety refers to feeling worried or fearful about past experiences or the future.
Common symptoms include restlessness, a racing heart and tense muscles.
“During the lockdowns, most people slept worse than they did prior to the pandemic.
How does a lack of sleep affect autistic people?
This can lead to emotional deregulation, diminished daytime functioning and social interaction, and increased anxiety.
How can autistic people improve their sleep?
“So, it’s also about having a safe environment.”
According to the sleep researcher, one way to create a safer sleep environment is through sleep aids.
Other sleep aids include weighted blankets, sleeping tunnels and tents, and even safety beds.
These beds define the edges of the bed through padded sidewalls or guard rails.
You have sensory and cognitive differences and this beautiful brain ticking in a different way.
So you oughta have your own ways of promoting sleep hygiene.”
Sometimes, creating an ideal routine can even mean allowing screen time before bed.
Being allowed to finish the day in your own way will absolutely work and be beneficial for sleep."
However, if you’re looking for inspiration, checkout our guide to theseven best breathing exercises for sleep.
Tom’s Guide created this content as part of a paid partnership with Helix Sleep.
The contents of this article are independent and solely reflect the editorial opinion of Tom’s Guide.
