Insomnia is a term used to describe a sleep disorder in which a person finds it difficult to fall and stay asleep. Childhood insomnia may develop during infancy and, in some cases, may continue through adolescence. Children with insomnia have persistent trouble falling asleep, lack restorative sleep, or wake up too early and may not go back to sleep. Insomnia in children may continue for a short term (acute), which lasts for a few days to weeks, or long term (persistent or chronic), lasting for months or even longer (1). Read on to learn about the causes, diagnosis, complications, and remedies for insomnia in children.
Causes Of Insomnia In Children
Insomnia can be a primary condition or may be a symptom of a medical condition. Below are some reasons that may contribute to the development of childhood insomnia (2).
Mental health disorders or emotional stress: Children under stressful situations at home or school may struggle with sleep. Additionally, existing mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression, may make children more susceptible to sleep disorders such as insomnia.
Side effects of medications: Certain drugs, such as steroids and antidepressants, may cause changes in a child’s sleeping pattern.
Sleep time behaviors or associations: Children who are used to too much screen time, sleeping with a parent, and not spending quiet time before bedtime may have issues falling asleep.
Environmental factors: A peaceful ambiance is necessary for a nice, uninterrupted sleep. Your child may not be able to sleep in noisy or hot environments.
Caffeine intake: Caffeinated drinks, such as sodas, colas, coffee, and energy drinks, may interfere with sleeping patterns and keep your child awake. Hence, you may avoid giving such drinks to your children.
Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, ADHD, and infections, may increase the risk of a child developing insomnia.
Symptoms Of Insomnia In Children
Other than sleeplessness, some common signs of insomnia in children may include:
Fatigue, constant tiredness
Refusing to sleep or struggling to fall asleep
Waking up frequently at night, unable to return to sleep
Day-time sleepiness, taking a nap, or falling asleep in school
Problems with concentration and memory
Inability to focus on academic tasks, family relationships, and social interactions
Behavioral issues (hyperactivity) and mood disorders
Being cranky or frequently emotional
Being agitated and aggressive
Lack of motivation and inability to make decisions
If your child is experiencing any of these signs and has a poor sleep routine, speak to your child’s doctor.
Complications Of Insomnia In Children
Chronic childhood insomnia and inadequate sleep may increase the risk of the following problems in children (3) (4) (5).
Psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression
Weakened immune system and frequent infections
Increased stress levels and emotional problems
Poor concentration, memory, and academic performance
Inappropriate behaviors such as temper issues and aggression
Obesity, blood pressure disorders, and higher risks of cardiovascular diseases in the future
Diagnosis Of Insomnia In Children
There is no specific lab test to diagnose childhood insomnia. A pediatrician may use the following techniques to determine the presence of insomnia (6).
Evaluate a child’s sleep pattern: You may maintain a sleep diary or log of your child’s sleep schedule, which can help the doctor track any sleep-related irregularities.
Study of a child’s medical history: A doctor may ask for your child’s medical history to check for signs of other underlying medical, developmental, or psychological issues.
Overnight study: In a few cases, the doctor may suggest an overnight assessment of your child’s sleep patterns if they suspect any other conditions such as sleep apnea. This test is known as sleep study or polysomnography.
Treatment For Insomnia In Children
Short-term insomnia mostly gets better at home with no treatment. Chronic insomnia may require treatment suggested by a doctor. The doctor may recommend the following interventions, depending on the underlying cause of insomnia and the child’s age.
Sleep routine modification: It includes creating a plan to develop positive sleep-related activities, such as having a bedtime routine and no screen time before bedtime. You must also establish fixed sleep routines, including naps, to establish healthy circadian rhythms (6).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I): This is a structured therapy for insomnia that relies on identifying thoughts and behaviors that are harming sleep patterns and replacing them with those that promote sleep (7).
Medications: Medication therapy is usually the last line of treatment as most drugs have side effects and are not approved for use in children. You must never give over-the-counter sleep medicines to a child and administer them only as per a doctor’s prescription. A doctor may recommend medications only when other therapies show no positive results. Melatonin is a common medication prescribed for insomnia in children.
Tips To Cope With Insomnia In Children
Children’s sleep issues can often be manageable at home by following a few simple strategies (5) (8). A good sleep makes a happy and healthy child. Most cases of childhood insomnia are acute and may resolve on their own with a few interventions at home. Speak to your child, check if something is bothering them, and try intervening to solve the issue. If home interventions do not work or insomnia interferes with the child’s health, consult a doctor to avoid long-term complications.
