Autism And Sleep: The Link Between Autism And Sleep Problems

Last Updated on August 6, 2025 by John Hookway

Many people with autism have trouble sleeping. Studies show about 71% of people with autism have sleep problems. This number is much higher than in most people.

Main causes are genetic differences and changes in melatonin. Sensory sensitivities, behavior challenges, and stress in the environment also play a part.

Knowing these issues helps families find better ways to manage Autism And Sleep. Everyone deserves hope for good sleep and happier days.

Key Takeaways

• Many people with autism have sleep problems. They may have trouble falling asleep. They might wake up during the night. Some wake up too early in the morning.
• Genetic differences can cause sleep problems. Changes in melatonin and the body’s clock also matter. Sensory sensitivities make sleep hard. Touch, sound, and light can bother people with autism. These things make it hard to relax and sleep well. Anxiety can make sleep harder.
• Repetitive behaviors can also make bedtime stressful. Poor sleep can hurt mood and learning. It can affect behavior and cause more stress. This happens to people with autism and their families. A steady bedtime routine can help sleep. A calm and comfortable bedroom is important.
• Melatonin supplements can help many people with autism. They are safe when used with good sleep habits. Getting help from a professional is important.
• Early help gives support that fits each person. This can make sleep and daily life better for people with autism and their families.

Autism And Sleep

Sleep Problems

A lot of people with autism have sleep problems. Studies say 50% to 86% of kids and adults with autism struggle to sleep.

This is much more than people without autism. Sleep problems can start when someone is a child. These problems often last into being an adult. Sleep issues can change how someone feels, learns, and acts each day.

People with autism may have trouble falling asleep. They might wake up at night or wake up too early. Their sleep schedule can be different from others. Some do not want to go to bed. Some have parasomnias like night terrors. Many feel sleepy during the day.

The table below shows how often sleep problems happen in groups with autism:

Sleep problems in Autism And Sleep often mean insomnia and waking up at night. Insomnia is when someone cannot fall asleep or stay asleep.

Bedtime resistance is when a person does not want to start getting ready for bed. Parasomnias are strange things that happen during sleep, like sleepwalking or night terrors. Many people with autism feel tired during the day because their sleep is not good.

Difficulty Falling Asleep

Having trouble falling asleep is very common in Autism And Sleep. About 23% of kids with autism cannot fall asleep easily. This is called sleep onset insomnia. People with autism often need more time to fall asleep than others.

They may take about 11 extra minutes to fall asleep each night. This can make bedtime hard for them and their families.

The table below shows how sleep problems are different for autistic and neurotypical people:

People with autism usually get less REM sleep. REM sleep helps with learning and memory. Their sleep may not help them feel rested.

Problems with melatonin and circadian rhythms can make it hard to get sleepy at the right time. These body differences are a big reason for Autism And Sleep problems.

Night Wakings

Waking up at night is another big sleep problem in Autism And Sleep. Many kids and adults with autism wake up during the night. They may find it hard to fall back asleep.

The number of people with this problem is different in each study. It can be as low as 19% or as high as 80%. Some wake up many times or stay awake for a long time. This makes sleep feel broken and causes tiredness the next day.

The chart below shows how often night wakings happen in different studies:

Night wakings often happen with other sleep problems. These can be trouble falling asleep or waking up too early.

Most studies use parent reports or sleep diaries to track night wakings. Some use special tools like actigraphy or polysomnography. Night wakings can make it hard for the whole family to sleep and get through the day.

Early Waking

Early waking happens a lot for people with autism. Many kids with autism get up much earlier than other kids. Waking up early can make it hard to get enough sleep.

Studies say 64% to 93% of kids with autism have sleep problems like early waking. These kids often wake up before their families. They may not be able to fall back asleep.

Waking up early in the morning often comes with other sleep problems. These can be trouble falling asleep or waking up at night.

Researchers use actigraphy and polysomnography to study sleep in kids with autism. These studies show that early waking and broken sleep are very common.

Adults with autism can also wake up early, but this is not studied as much. Some adults have phase advancement. This means their bodies want to wake up earlier than most people.

This can make them tired during the day. It can also affect how they learn, feel, and act. Early waking is a big part of Autism And Sleep problems.

• Early waking is often seen in kids with autism.
• Sleep problems like early waking happen in 64% to 93% of kids.
• Early waking usually comes with other sleep problems like short sleep and waking up at night.
• Sleep tracking devices show early waking and broken sleep in kids with autism.
• Adults with autism may wake up early because of changes in circadian rhythm.

Irregular Patterns

Irregular sleep patterns are another big problem in Autism And Sleep. Kids with autism often do not have a regular sleep schedule.

Their bedtimes and wake times can change every day. Not having a routine makes it hard for their bodies to know when to sleep or wake up.

Research says about 53% of kids with autism have irregular sleep patterns. Only 32% of kids without autism have this problem.

Kids with autism may need more time to fall asleep. They may wake up many times at night and sleep for shorter times.

They may also wake up early and cannot go back to sleep. Parents often see that their child’s sleep routine changes a lot. This makes it hard for the whole family to plan their days.

Studies show that kids with autism have different sleep patterns from when they are babies through early childhood. These differences can last for many years.

Scientists think changes in melatonin and genetics may cause these irregular patterns. Some kids with autism do not make enough melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps control sleep. This can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. Irregular sleep patterns can also make daytime behavior and Autism And Sleep symptoms worse. Some treatments, like melatonin supplements, have helped some kids sleep better.

• Kids with autism have more sleep problems than kids without autism.
• Common problems are taking longer to fall asleep, waking up at night, short sleep, early waking, and no steady routine.
• Parent reports and sleep studies both show these irregular patterns.
• Changes in melatonin and genetics may be reasons.
• Better sleep routines and some treatments can help sleep patterns.

Biological Causes

Genetics

Genetics are a big reason for sleep problems in autism. Scientists have found many gene mutations linked to sleep issues.

These mutations change how the brain controls sleep and wake times. Some important genes are SHANK3, MECP2, VGAT, SLC6A1, HRH1, HRH2, HRH3, KCNQ3, PCDH10, AHI1, ARHGEF10, UBE3A, SLC6A3, HTR2A, SLC6A4, MAOA, MAOB, TPH2, VMATs, CADPS2, ASMT, MTNR1A, and MTNR1B.

• These gene mutations can change how the brain uses GABA, dopamine, and histamine.
• Some genes, like SHANK3, are linked to trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Kids with Phelan-McDermid syndrome, which involves SHANK3, often have trouble falling asleep and wake up a lot at night.
• Other genes affect how the body makes melatonin, which helps control sleep.
• Some gene changes make it hard for the brain to switch between REM and non-REM sleep.

Genetic differences may explain why sleep problems are different for each person with autism. The mix of genes and brain chemicals makes sleep issues unique for everyone.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that helps people know when to sleep or wake up. Many kids with autism have less melatonin than other kids.

This can make it hard for them to fall asleep or stay asleep. Some kids with autism start making melatonin later at night, so they fall asleep later.

• Studies show people with autism often have less melatonin in their urine, blood, and brain.
• Low melatonin can cause problems with social skills and talking.
• When melatonin is not made right, the body’s sleep-wake rhythm gets messed up.
• Melatonin also helps protect the brain and helps brain connections. If melatonin is low, these good effects may not happen as much.

Changes in melatonin pathway genes, like ASMT, can make it hard for the body to make enough melatonin. This can cause sleep problems and may affect learning and behavior. Doctors sometimes suggest melatonin supplements to help kids with autism sleep better.

Melatonin helps with sleep and keeps the brain healthy. Many kids with autism do better with melatonin supplements, which can help sleep and behavior during the day.

Circadian Rhythm

Circadian rhythm is the body’s clock. It tells people when to sleep, wake up, and eat. Many people with autism have problems with their circadian rhythms.

Their bodies may not release melatonin and cortisol at the right times. This can make it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up at the right time.

Researchers found that changes in circadian rhythm genes, like Per1, Per2, Npas2, Nr1d1, and Rorα/β, are more common in autism. These changes can make the body’s clock less accurate.

Animal studies show that when the circadian rhythm is off early in life, animals act more like they have autism, such as having trouble with social skills and repeating actions.

• Problems with circadian rhythms can cause more behavior problems, like aggression, anxiety, and trouble paying attention.
• Sleep problems from circadian rhythm issues can make autism symptoms worse and make life harder for families.
• Keeping a regular sleep schedule and using light therapy can sometimes help fix the body’s clock.

Having the right circadian timing helps sleep and behavior. When the body’s clock is off, daily life can be much harder for people with autism and their families.

Sensory Factors

Sensitivities

Many people with autism are very sensitive to things around them. These sensitivities can make sleeping much harder.

Kids with autism often react a lot to touch and sound. Even small noises or certain fabrics can keep them awake. These things can also wake them up at night. Studies show that sensory issues and sleep problems often happen together.

• Being very sensitive to touch is common in kids with autism who have trouble sleeping.
• Being very sensitive to sound is also closely linked to sleep problems.
• These sensitivities can make it take longer to fall asleep. They can cause more waking up at night, less sleep, and waking up early.
• When sensory sensitivities get better or worse, sleep problems usually change too.

A child who feels every wrinkle in the sheets may not relax. If they hear every noise in the house, sleep is hard. Their bodies stay alert, so falling asleep is tough. Parents often see better sleep when sensory triggers are less.

Environment

The bedroom is very important for people with autism. Many have strong senses, so things like light, noise, or heat can bother them. A room that is too bright, loud, or hot can make sleep very hard.

• Too much light, noise, or heat can make sleep worse for people with autism.
• Sensory sensitivities make it harder to relax and fall asleep in these places.
• Making the bedroom calm and comfy helps a lot. Darkness, quiet, and the right temperature help people sleep better.
• Things like blackout curtains, white noise, weighted blankets, and soft pajamas can help with sensory overload.
• Having a regular bedtime and less screen time before bed also helps sleep.

A quiet and peaceful bedroom tells the brain it is time to rest. Small changes in the room can really help sleep get better.

Routine Changes

People with autism often need routines to feel safe and calm. Changes in routine can make them feel stressed and worried.

This can lead to sleep problems. Studies show that anxiety and being too sensitive can cause sleep problems by making the body stay alert.

• Anxiety and being too sensitive are strongly linked to sleep problems, especially when routines change.
• Kids with autism often have more sleep worries and do not want to go to bed when their routine changes.
• Keeping the same bedtime routine can lower anxiety and help kids fall asleep faster.
• Some studies show that using behavior supports and keeping routines steady can help sleep.
• When routines are not steady, anxiety and sensory problems can get worse, making sleep even harder.

A steady routine tells the brain it is time to calm down. When routines change, kids may feel worried and stay awake. Families who keep routines often see better sleep and less stress at night.

Behavioral & Psychological

Anxiety

Anxiety makes sleep hard for many people with autism. It can make it tough to fall asleep and stay asleep. Kids with autism who feel anxious may take longer to fall asleep.

They may sleep less and wake up more at night. Anxiety can also make kids not want to go to bed. Some kids feel scared at bedtime. These problems get worse if a child is also very sensitive to sounds or touch.

• Anxiety in autistic kids is linked to trouble falling asleep, less sleep, and waking up at night.
• Kids with both anxiety and strong reactions to sounds or touch have more sleep trouble.
• Feeling tense and alert makes it hard for anxious kids to relax and sleep.
• Anxiety and depression often happen together, but each changes sleep in its own way.
• Nighttime fears and anxiety behaviors are seen more in kids with autism than in other kids.

Many studies show that anxiety and being sensitive to things around them make sleep much harder for kids with autism. Support that helps with anxiety can make sleep better.

Repetitive Behaviors

Repetitive behaviors are common in autism and can affect sleep. These actions include rocking, hand-flapping, or repeating sounds. Kids with autism who do these things a lot may have trouble falling asleep. They may not want to go to bed.

• Taking longer to fall asleep and not wanting to go to bed are linked to repetitive actions.
• Wanting things to always be the same does not have a strong link to sleep problems.
• Sleep problems often happen with unusual sensory experiences, which are common in autism.
• About 60–90% of people with autism have sensory features that change how they react to sounds, touch, or lights.
• Repetitive actions linked to senses can make it hard to calm down and sleep.

Not sleeping well can make repetitive actions worse during the day. Kids who do not sleep enough may have more tantrums or act out. Sleeping better can help lower these actions and make life easier.

Executive Function

Executive function (EF) means the mental skills needed to plan and control actions. Many people with autism have trouble with EF.

These problems make it hard to follow bedtime routines or handle changes. If a child has trouble remembering or controlling actions, bedtime can be confusing or stressful.

Kids with autism may not remember what to do at bedtime. They may get upset if routines change. These EF problems, along with being sensitive and anxious, can mess up sleep routines. Research shows that not sleeping well makes EF problems worse, especially with behavior and feelings. This cycle can make it even harder for kids with autism to get enough rest.

Helping kids have strong routines and clear rules can help them sleep better and improve executive function over time.

Impact On Daily Life

Mood

Sleep problems can change how people with autism feel each day. Bad sleep messes up brain chemicals like serotonin and melatonin. These chemicals help control mood and help people relax.

When sleep is not good, the body makes more cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone. High cortisol can make people feel worried and tense.

Kids with autism who do not sleep enough often get more cranky and anxious. They may have trouble paying attention. Some feel sad or have a low mood. Studies show kids who sleep seven hours or less have more mood problems.

They also have worse autism symptoms. Adults with autism say poor sleep makes life harder and raises stress. This stress can make mood problems even worse.

Sleeping well helps people with autism feel calm and happy. When sleep gets better, mood and stress usually improve too.

Learning

Sleep is important for learning and thinking. Many kids with autism have sleep problems. This makes it harder to pay attention and remember things. Bad sleep hurts working memory and focus. It can also make it hard to talk with others at school or home.

Kids with autism who do not sleep well often have trouble with:

• Paying attention in class
• Remembering new things
• Solving problems
• Following directions

Teens with autism who sleep badly may have more trouble learning than those who sleep well. Anxiety can make these learning problems worse.

Both sleep loss and anxiety hurt the brain areas needed for thinking and self-control. When sleep and anxiety get better, learning and memory often improve.

Behavior

Behavior changes are common when people with autism do not sleep well. Sleep problems can cause more hyperactivity, aggression, and acting without thinking.

Some kids may do more repetitive actions or have trouble following rules. Others may stay away from people or have more tantrums.

Common behavior problems linked to bad sleep in autism include:

• Aggression and crankiness
• Hurting themselves or head banging
• Hyperactivity and acting without thinking
• Trouble paying attention
• More repetitive or strict actions

Even kids with mild autism can have big behavior problems if they do not sleep enough. Sleep issues like insomnia, sleep apnea, or waking up a lot at night can make these problems worse. Helping kids sleep better can lower these problems and make life easier for families.

Family Stress

Sleep problems in children with autism often affect the entire family. When a child wakes up many times at night or struggles to fall asleep, parents and caregivers also lose sleep. This lack of rest can lead to higher stress and lower well-being for everyone in the household.

Many studies show that mothers of children with autism experience much poorer sleep than mothers of children without autism. They often take longer to fall asleep, sleep for shorter periods, and feel tired during the day.

Fathers and other caregivers can also feel these effects. When parents do not sleep well, they may feel more anxious, stressed, or even depressed.

Families with a child who has sleep problems often face more challenges each day. Parents may find it harder to manage work, home tasks, and caring for other children.

Researchers have found strong links between a child’s sleep issues and family stress. Some of the most common problems include:

• Parents report higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression when their child has trouble sleeping.
• Night wakings, parasomnias (like night terrors), and trouble falling asleep in children are linked to more stress and mental health problems for parents.
• Parents of children with sleep problems often feel more tired and less able to handle daily tasks.
• Sleep disruptions in children can lead to lower quality of life for parents, affecting their physical health, mood, and even their home environment.
• The relationship between a child’s sleep and parent well-being goes both ways. When a child sleeps poorly, parents feel more stressed. When parents feel stressed, a child’s sleep may get even worse.

Families may also notice changes in how they interact with each other. Parents who are tired may have less patience. Siblings may feel upset if their sleep is disturbed. Family routines can become harder to keep, and everyone may feel more on edge.

Some families have extra challenges, such as a history of health problems, which can make sleep and stress even harder to manage. Even though parents may have support from friends or family, sleep problems still have a strong impact on their stress and mental health.

Good sleep for a child with autism can help the whole family feel better. When sleep improves, parents often feel less stressed, more rested, and better able to care for their child and themselves.

Improving Sleep

Routines

Having the same bedtime routine helps many people with autism sleep better. Studies show routines like bedtime fading and fun activities before bed help kids sleep longer. These routines also help kids fall asleep faster. They can lower anxiety and stop some bad behaviors during the day.

Parents often use pictures or stories to show each bedtime step. These tools help kids know what will happen next. This makes them feel less stressed and less likely to fight bedtime. Giving praise or small rewards helps kids follow the routine.

Doing calm things, like reading or listening to soft music, tells the brain it is time to sleep. Parents who write down sleep habits can change routines to help their child. A regular routine and a helpful environment help kids become more independent. This also helps everyone in the family sleep better.

A steady bedtime routine helps kids feel safe and calm. This makes it easier for kids with autism to relax and fall asleep.

Environment

The bedroom is very important for good sleep in people with autism. Many kids with autism react strongly to light, noise, or heat. Small changes in the room can help a lot.

• Blackout curtains keep out light and make the room dark. This helps the brain know it is time to sleep.
• White noise machines cover up loud sounds. This makes the room feel quiet and safe.
• Weighted blankets or soft sheets can help kids who are sensitive to touch.
• Keeping the room at a good temperature stops kids from waking up at night.

These changes help stop sensory overload. They help kids fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. When families use these changes with a regular bedtime, sleep often gets better. If sleep problems do not get better, families should talk to a doctor for more help.

Behavioral Strategies

Behavioral strategies teach new habits for better sleep. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) helps older kids and adults change thoughts and actions that keep them awake. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people handle worries that make sleep hard.

Parents can use sleep diaries to see what works best. Bedtime fading means moving bedtime earlier little by little. This helps kids fall asleep faster. Waking kids up at set times and limiting sleep time can also help over time.

Sensory management, like using tight sheets or headphones, lowers anxiety and stops sensory overload. Turning off screens before bed and picking quiet activities helps the brain get ready for sleep. Regular exercise, like jogging or lifting weights, can also help sleep get better.

Behavioral strategies, along with routines and a calm room, help kids with autism sleep better and feel more rested during the day.

Medical Options

Doctors suggest medical options if routines and behavior changes do not help sleep in people with autism. Melatonin is the most studied and helpful medical treatment for sleep problems in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Melatonin is a hormone that helps control when we sleep and wake up. Many kids and teens with autism have less melatonin. This can make it hard for them to fall asleep or stay asleep.

Studies show melatonin supplements help kids with autism sleep longer and fall asleep faster. They also wake up less at night. In some studies, kids who took melatonin slept about 73 minutes longer.

They also fell asleep about 66 minutes faster than kids who did not take it. Melatonin caused fewer night wakings and had very few side effects. Doctors usually start with a small dose. Sometimes, they use a slow-release form for better results.

Melatonin is safe for most kids and teens with autism. It can also help with daytime behavior and some autism symptoms.

Doctors usually want families to try behavior changes first, like good sleep habits and bedtime routines. But only about one in four kids with autism get better with these alone.

If these do not work, melatonin is the main medical choice. Experts say to use melatonin with behavior changes for the best results. Other medicines, like sedatives or antihistamines, do not have enough proof they work for sleep in autism. They may also cause unwanted side effects.

Families should always talk to a doctor before starting any medicine. A doctor can help decide if melatonin is right and watch for side effects. Melatonin works best when used with good sleep habits and a calm bedtime routine.

Professional Help

Sometimes, sleep problems in autism do not get better with home changes or medicine. In these cases, families should get help from professionals.

Ongoing sleep problems—like trouble falling asleep, waking up a lot, not wanting to go to bed, or being very sleepy during the day—often need expert help.

A team works best for tough sleep problems. Pediatricians check for health issues and give first advice. Sleep specialists study sleep and find sleep disorders.

Behavioral therapists, like those trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), help make good sleep routines. Occupational therapists can help with sensory problems that affect sleep.

Getting help early from professionals can lead to better sleep and daily life for the person and their family.

Families should get professional help when:

1. Sleep problems last a long time or get worse.
2. Sleep issues change mood, learning, or behavior during the day.
3. Home changes and fixing the bedroom do not help.
4. There are signs of other problems, like anxiety, ADHD, or sleep apnea.

Professionals may use a mix of behavior, medicine, and sensory ideas to make a sleep plan. They can help families change routines and the bedroom for better sleep. Medicine, like melatonin, should only be used with a doctor’s help.

Working with a team of experts gives families the best chance to help sleep and feel better. Getting help early can stop bigger problems and help everyone in the family feel more rested and healthy.

Support For Families

Caregiver Role

Caregivers are very important for helping people with autism sleep well. How well caregivers sleep affects the whole family. When caregivers get enough sleep, they feel happier and healthier.

If caregivers do not sleep well, they feel more stressed and tired. Many caregivers stay awake at night because their child wakes up or needs help. This makes it hard for caregivers to get good sleep.

Caregivers often work with occupational therapists to help with sleep. What caregivers think about their child’s sleep helps plan therapy. When caregivers get help and support, they feel less stressed and family life gets better. If caregivers help early in therapy, kids sleep better.

Healthcare Collaboration

Families and healthcare teams need to work together to help people with autism sleep better. Working together helps make sleep plans that fit each child. Parent training teaches families how to use behavior tools and set bedtime routines. These routines help kids sleep better.

• When parents help, stress goes down for the whole family.
• Telehealth lets families get sleep help even if they live far away.
• Experts may suggest things like weighted blankets or white noise to help with sensory problems.
• Sleep diaries and actigraphy help track sleep and show what needs to change.
• Keeping routines and changing the bedroom with help from doctors can make sleep better.

Good teamwork brings together doctors, therapists, teachers, and families. A care coordinator helps everyone talk and work toward the same goals. This teamwork builds strong routines and sleep plans for each person.

Self-Advocacy

People with autism can learn to help themselves sleep better with support. Self-advocacy means asking for what you need and making choices about sleep. Learning to calm down and check your own sleep helps people be more independent.

1. Make a regular bedtime routine with calming things like reading or soft music.
2. Give rewards or praise for following bedtime steps.
3. Make the bedroom comfy by lowering light and noise and using soft bedding.
4. Use pictures or charts to show each bedtime step.
5. Try relaxing activities like deep breathing or mindfulness to help the body relax.

These ideas help people with autism take control of their sleep. When they know what helps them rest, they can ask for changes and make choices for better sleep. Families and therapists can help teach these skills, so everyone feels more confident and sleeps better.

Sleep problems in autism can be caused by things like anxiety, being sensitive to sounds or touch, and changes in the body’s clock.

These problems can make people feel upset, make learning harder, and cause stress at home. Studies show that having routines, using behavior tools, and doing physical activities can help kids sleep better and feel more relaxed. When families work on sleep, daily life often gets easier.

Getting better sleep gives hope to kids with autism and their families. Support and simple steps can really help.

FAQ

Why do people with autism have trouble sleeping?

People with autism have differences in their brains and bodies. These differences can make sleep hard. Sensory sensitivities and anxiety also affect sleep. Changes in melatonin levels play a part too. Sleep routines and the bedroom can help or hurt sleep.

Can melatonin help people with autism sleep?

Melatonin supplements may help some people with autism sleep better. They can help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Doctors usually say to start with a small dose. Families should always talk to a doctor before using melatonin.

What are common sleep problems in autism?

People with autism may have trouble falling asleep. They might wake up at night or wake up too early. Some have sleep schedules that change a lot. Others do not want to go to bed or have night terrors.

How can parents help their child with autism sleep better?

Parents can make a regular bedtime routine for their child. The bedroom should be calm and dark. Limiting screen time before bed helps too. Using visual schedules and calming activities can help children relax.

Being consistent helps children feel safe and ready for sleep.

When should families seek professional help for sleep problems?

Families should get help if sleep problems last a long time. They should also get help if sleep gets worse or changes mood and behavior. Doctors, sleep specialists, and therapists can give support and make a plan.

Do sleep problems in autism get better with age?

Some children with autism sleep better as they get older. Others may still have sleep problems when they grow up. Support, routines, and medical help can really help with sleep.

Can poor sleep make autism symptoms worse?

Yes. Poor sleep can make anxiety and behavior problems worse. It can also make learning and mood harder. Good sleep helps people with autism feel better and do well each day.

Are there special tools or products that help with sleep?

Some people with autism sleep better with blackout curtains, white noise, or weighted blankets.