I have been having sleep issues for a long time. I have trouble with both falling asleep and staying asleep. It used to contribute to some of my dysregulation, but fortunately that’s not the case anymore. I do still find it impacts my day. When I don’t get good sleep, I find it difficult to want to do anything but relax. I am able to stay regulated and do what I have planned, which is a big accomplishment for me. However it can be uncomfortable. Lack of motivation can be hard to navigate and sleep issues are the main thing that cause it for me. I don’t know of a clear reason for why I have trouble sleeping.

Many people with autism have sleep issues. It can be difficult and discouraging for both the individual experiencing it and those caring for them. It’s important to know that in most cases not sleeping is not intentional. I often want to fall asleep as much as my parents want me to. Added stress can make it even harder to rest. If you live with someone with sleep issues, it’s important to remember that we aren’t happy with the situation either. Being unable to sleep can leave me feeling frustrated, exhausted, and out of control. I may already be doing everything I can to get comfortable and relax, even when it doesn’t look that way from the outside. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is remind your loved one that it’s okay to have a difficult night and that they don’t have to feel guilty for something out of their control.