Leslie McLeod
March is Sleep Awareness Month. The National Sleep Foundation, which promotes this awareness, believes that sleep is an indispensable part of a healthy lifestyle. They are dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy.
Problems with sleeping with intellectual or developmental disorders are not uncommon. Sleeping problems are more common in children with intellectual or developmental disorders than typically developing children. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders often have problems falling asleep and with waking during the night. People with Down syndrome often have medical problems that affect their sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea. Children with cerebral palsy often have disordered breathing that can affect their sleep and may have different sleep patterns than other children. Children with developmental disabilities may also have sleep terrors and demonstrate sleepwalking.
As a parent, it can be exhausting. Speaking personally, I myself have tried to stay awake with my child who has been diagnosed with a developmental disorder and a sleeping disorder. Fifty eight hours later, my body was shutting down whether I wanted it to or not while he was still going around the house like the Energizer Bunny. I have learned over the years what does and does not work. So, what is a parent to do if their loved one with special needs needs to get some zzz’s? Here are some of my helpful tips:
Do your own research. Find out what can be causing the issues with sleeping. It could be something in the diet (gastrointestinal issues), something in the environment (stress, schedule, etc.) or something more serious. A great go-to book is Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, by Marc Weissbluth M.D. This book is filled with great advice and suggestions for kids of all ages.
Many parents are turning to essential oils for their children’s inability to get a good night’s sleep. Oils such as Vetiver, Cedarwood, and Lavender are the most common essential oils used for sleeping aids. Essential oils are natural, have been around for thousands of years and can be used in many ways (aromatic diffusion, topical application, or dietary consumption).
Natural supplements, such as Melatonin, can also be used. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin helps control your sleep and wake cycles. Very small amounts of it are found in foods such as meats, grains, fruits, and vegetables.
There are times when the only answer to a good night’s sleep is medication. Medication for sleeping is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when nothing else works. Sometimes this is the only path for someone and their family to get rest.
Last, but not least, always talk to you doctor about any complications with sleeping and ask them what they feel is right for you. If you trust your doctor, there's no reason you shouldn't approach him or her about a sleep problem and decide on the next step together.