Sleep Disturbances in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Overview for Clinicians

Abstract

Background: Sleep disorders in autism spectrum disorders (ASD/SD) are distinct, broad, and highly variable clinical entities that ubiquitously affect core symptomatology, development of comorbid disorders, and overall quality of life for affected children and families. High genetic predisposition and the presence of co-occurring disorders present significant challenges in assessment and appropriate interventions. Objective: The study aimed to review the best available evidence and address the clinical gaps in the knowledge about sleep disorders in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Methods: The review provides a comprehensive literature search of 1622 articles and summarizes 110 selected for empirical evidence to methodically consider critical aspects of sleep disorders in ASD for informing clinicians of useful information. Results: Clinicians have insufficient guidance and support to effectively manage sleep disruptions in ASD youth in practice. Prevalence of sleep disruption in ASD, close to 80%, is characterized by unique subtypes, including but not limited to obstructive sleep apnea, circadian rhythm disorders, and sleep-related movement disorders. Greater awareness of sleep disruption, its neurodevelopmental basis, scope, and impact allows for improved treatment and prevention efforts of these conditions, and is critical for clinical practice and future research. The bidirectional nature of disruptive sleep and ASD is considered a major area requiring further clarification. Conclusion: Clinician-friendly screening tools are needed for everyday office practice to identify ASD/SD conditions and interventions, and mitigate harmful effects. Psychoeducational and cognitive-behavioral approaches for improving and supporting healthy sleep hygiene, considered the first line of treatment, are detailed. The weak database for the use of psychopharmacologic agents is summarized, and the strength of prescribing prolonged-release melatonin for optimal results is described. The promise of other medications is discussed.