Sleep disturbance, circadian preference and symptoms of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

J Neural Transm (Vienna). 2012 Oct;119(10):1195-204. doi: 10.1007/s00702-012-0862-3. Epub 2012 Jul 20.

Abstract

Inattention is a core symptom of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and one of the main impairments resulting from insomnia disorders. These disorders have also been reported to be linked with disturbances in circadian rhythms and with increased eveningness. To explore these associations, more than 550 adults were surveyed across Romania. Using self-reported questionnaires, the presence and severity of ADHD and insomnia symptoms were determined, together with sleep and circadian typology parameters. ADHD symptoms were more frequent and severe among younger individuals. Subjects with probable ADHD complained more frequently of sleep disturbance of the insomnia type (more than 50 %) and reported shorter sleep durations and longer sleep latencies and more frequent unwanted awakenings. Individuals likely to suffer from ADHD and/or insomnia disorder were significantly more evening oriented than controls. Inattention was associated with both insomnia and eveningness, while impulsivity was associated with poor sleep. Hyperactivity and sleep timing were associated with poor sleep only in probable insomnia group. These findings highlight the reciprocal links between ADHD symptoms, sleep and diurnal preference.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / complications*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology*
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Chronobiology Disorders / epidemiology
  • Chronobiology Disorders / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Romania
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / complications*
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult