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Melatonin Supplements Improve Sleep Quality For Autistic Children

by Sheila McCormick on December 2nd, 2009

Parents of autistic children received good news recently when The Journal Of Clinical Sleep Medicine reported that melatonin supplements help improve the quality of sleep for children with autism. Because it is a broad-based spectrum illness with many different symptoms, autism is challenging to diagnose and to treat. It is characterized by impaired social interaction and communication as well as repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and create significant challenges for the children and for their parents. Unfortunately, autism rates have been on the rise in recent years. According to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one child in 150 develops autism or a related disorder like Asperger’s syndrome by the age of 8.

Researchers estimate that at least 77 percent of children with autism have trouble sleeping, which further compounds the behavioral issues associated with the syndrome. There are several theories about the reasons for the sleep disturbances. For starters, children with autism may have trouble understanding why and when they need to sleep. A child with autism may not make the connection between their siblings going to bed and their own need to sleep.

Autistic children tend to be much more sensitive to light and sound, which makes it more difficult to create a relaxing environment for them. While most children continue to sleep when their mother opens the bedroom door to check on them or tucks in their covers, a child with autism is likely to wake abruptly at these minor interruptions.

The study that was published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine suggests that reduced melatonin levels in autistic children may hamper their ability to get a good night’s sleep. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles in both adults and children. Typically, melatonin levels rise in response to darkness and dip during the daytime hours. Studies have shown that children with autism don’t release melatonin at the appropriate times of the day. They tend to have high levels of melatonin during daylight hours and lower levels at night.

Autistic children who received melatonin supplements in controlled studies tended to sleep better and function more effectively during the day. No adverse effects were reported in any of the children that were given melatonin, however you should check with your pediatrician or holistic health practitioner to make sure melatonin supplements are appropriate for your child.

Fortunately, the supplements are easy to find in health food stores in your city or online. While you are shopping for melatonin, pick up some lavender oil as well and use it in your child’s nighttime bath to help produce a calming effect.

While research about the causes and cures for autism continues, more and more parents are turning to Mother Nature to help their children with symptoms. If you or someone you love care for an autistic child, consider using natural supplements to make your child’s life (and your life) a little easier.