Investigating the Genetics of Sleep and Autism - Current Research

Sleep problems are very common for autistic children. It's a common struggle that can leave both kids and parents feeling exhausted. Did you know that research suggests up to 80% of autistic children face difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep? So if your child has sleep difficulties, you're not alone.

There are some fascinating findings from a research team at McGill University, which explored the connection between sleep, circadian rhythm, insomnia, and genetics in autistic children. Their study looked at almost 6000 autistic children and focused on sleep disturbances, circadian rhythm, and insomnia in autistic children. The results revealed that these sleep difficulties aren't just behavioral—they occur at the genetic level!

The research team also discovered that autistic females were more likely to experience insomnia. Understanding these gender differences can help inform better support strategies and interventions for this specific subgroup.

Understanding sleep disturbances in autistic children is so important. Sleep is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being. It allows the body to repair and rejuvenate, promoting physical and mental recovery. Adequate sleep enhances cognitive function, memory consolidation, and learning abilities, leading to improved productivity and decision-making skills.

Learn more about what the current research is saying about sleep by reading AUTISM ADVOCATE Parenting Magazine. This resource-packed magazine can equip you with practical tips and knowledge to navigate the sleep challenges faced by your autistic child.

Let's strive for restful nights and brighter days for our amazing autistic children!

Access the full-text Research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36192372/

Access a review article of this research study in our article directory by clicking here.