A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, in collaboration with several international institutions, has revealed a crucial connection between melatonin secretion and the severity of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) symptoms in children. The findings, published in Psychiatry Research Communications, suggest that genetic variations affecting melatonin production may significantly contribute to the development and worsening of ADHD symptoms.
ADHD is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 5% of children worldwide. Persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity characterize it. While it has long been known that children with ADHD often struggle with sleep disorders, the precise relationship between sleep and ADHD symptoms has remained unclear—until now.
The study, using data from the Hamamatsu Birth Cohort for Mothers and Children (HBC Study), which tracks children’s development from birth, revealed that children with genetic traits that reduce melatonin secretion at night exhibited more severe ADHD symptoms at age 8 to 9.
“Our findings indicate that disruptions in melatonin secretion may contribute to the difficulties children with ADHD face in maintaining regular sleep patterns,” said Associate Professor Nagahide Takahashi, the lead author and a clinical expert on ADHD. “This could potentially worsen their ADHD symptoms, creating a vicious cycle that can be challenging to break.”
This research has significant implications as it highlights the importance of good sleep habits for children with ADHD. These include consistent bedtime routines, limiting screen time before sleep, and increasing exposure to natural light during the day. Additionally, the study indicates that taking melatonin supplements could help manage ADHD symptoms, but more research is required to confirm its long-term effectiveness.
“This study represents a major advancement in comprehending the intricate relationship between sleep and neurodevelopmental disorders. As researchers delve deeper into these connections, parents and healthcare providers could discover fresh strategies to assist children with ADHD in better managing their symptoms.”