Interventions for Sleep Problems in Autistic Adolescents and Adults

Figure 17. Types of Sleep Problems. Various sleep problems in adolescents/adults with autism. Assessing and managing these sleep issues improves overall well-being.

Figure 18. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Type of sleep disturbance issue that interferes with the ability to stay asleep. Impacts older adults. 

Figure 19. Tips for Improving Sleep Hygiene. If you struggle with sleep, adolescents/adults with autism can follow these tips to improve sleep hygiene. Turn screens off early & find a soothing, tech-free way to unwind [22]

Figure 20. Tips for Sensory Management [23]. Compression bed sheets, noise-cancelling headphones, and white noise can help reduce anxiety and diminish sensory overwhelm 

Figure 21. Managing Difficult Behaviors and Emotions [24, 25]. These tips can help to calm the nervous system to reduce anxiety, energy before bed, night terrors, and tough emotions.

Figure 22. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) [26,27] . This treatment can help autistic adolescents and adults adjust their behaviors to improve sleep. Ask your healthcare provider for a referral to these services. 

Figure 23. Utilizing Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) [28] . ACT can develop thought patterns that can make it easier to fall and stay asleep. Ask your healthcare provider for a referral to these services. 

Figure 24. Over-the-counter and Prescription Sleep Medications for Autistic Adolescents and Adults. Among these medications, melatonin is the most evaluated as a treatment for insomnia in individuals on the autism spectrum [29].