At least 80% of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (otherwise known as ASD) have sleep problems resulting from learning challenges, sleeping during the daytime, and other autism-related challenges due to behavior, including aggression and inattentiveness. Fortunately, people with autism that are experiencing sleep difficulties can get autism treatment near Durham to help improve their sleep hygiene.
Autism Treatment Near Durham – Tips for Better Sleep Hygiene:
Create a Comfortable and Convenient Sleeping Environment
The first step towards creating a comfortable sleeping environment is to ensure that the bedroom is quiet, dark, and cool. People with ASD are sensitive to noise due to the fact that they have sensory issues. The bedroom should be adaptable to ensure you or your loved on is sleeping comfortably.
Get Plenty of Daytime Exercise
People that exercise during the day tend to fall asleep faster and stay asleep at night. It is important to note that exercise should not be done too close to bedtime, as the stimulation can make it more difficult for people to fall asleep.
Try Sleeping Alone
It is essential to let your loved one with autism develop the skill of sleeping alone without your presence. Adults and children with autism both wake up and go back to sleep by reinstating previously established sleep associations. This implies that someone who requires that someone else be present while they go to sleep will also need the assistance of that person during their regular wake-up calls. In order to establish sleep autonomy, sleeping alone is key.
Create a Bedtime Schedule
People with autism need to have a predictable bedtime routine – one that is relatively short ranging from 20-30 minutes. Activities such as listening to soothing music and reading books are great ways to settle down before bedtime. It is advisable to avoid using electronics like computers, televisions, and video games before bedtime due to the stimulating blue light. Furthermore, your loved one with autism should adhere to a sleep and wake-up schedule. This schedule needs to be regular regardless of the day of the week. If your loved one has consistent sleep difficulties, you may want to consider seeking out autism treatment near Durham.
Abstain from Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and therefore has a disruptive effect on sleep. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some sodas and should be avoided in order to practice good sleep hygiene.
Need Help with a Sleep Hygiene for ASD? Seek Autism Treatment Near Durham
To summarize, people with autism require a conducive sleeping environment, a regular bedtime schedule, daytime exercise, and the ability to sleep alone in order to get a good night’s sleep. If you or your loved one with ASD consistently experiences hardship in sleep, autism treatment near Durham can help.
ShineLight Provides Autism Treatment Near Durham and Beyond
ShineLight was created with the distinct purpose of providing a brighter life and future for individuals with autism. ShineLight serves as a guiding light for individuals and their families by leading the way in support services and community advocacy. Their service areas include: Fayetteville, Wake, Sampson, Scotland, Duplin, Wayne, Lenoir, Greene, Wilson, Edgecombe, Durham, Johnston, Cumberland, Hoke, Robeson, and Bladen Counties. Contact us today.
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