ADHD and sleep: what do GPs need to know?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting approximately 3-5% of children.1 ADHD impairs the regulation of brain activity and often affects sleep patterns. In many cases ADHD continues into adulthood.2 It is four times more common in males than in females, with a prevalence of 3.6% and 0.9%, respectively, in children aged between 5-15 years old.3 The symptoms of ADHD can be categorised into different types of behavioural problems:2 Inattentiveness – unable to concentrate for very long or finish a task, disorganised, often losing things, easily distracted and forgetful, unable to listen when