Information & advice
How sleep impacts the mental health of children with SEND
Sleep is vital for every child’s well-being, but for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), poor sleep can affect their mental health, behaviour, and quality of life.
Understanding the connection between sleep and mental health is a key step in helping children with SEND thrive – and in supporting those, like you, who care for them.
Link between sleep and mental health
Sleep gives the brain a chance to rest, process emotions, and reset. When a child doesn’t get enough quality sleep, they’re more likely to experience:
- Increased anxiety and worry
- Low mood or signs of depression
- Emotional outbursts or frustration
- Difficulty concentrating and learning
- Reduced resilience in being able to manage daily challenges
For children with SEND – who may already face communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, or changes in routine – poor sleep can make it even harder to regulate emotions and feel settled. Sleep is more than ‘just rest’ – it’s a crucial foundation for mental health, emotional balance, and day-to-day life.
Sleep challenges
Sleep difficulties can be more common in children with SEND compared to their peers. These challenges don’t just lead to tiredness – they can affect a child’s emotional balance, confidence, and ability to engage during the day.
You might notice your child, or a child you care for, struggling with:
- Falling asleep – Often due to anxiety, overstimulation, or difficulty winding down.
- Staying asleep – Frequent waking in the night can lead to broken, poor-quality rest.
- Waking early – Some children naturally wake very early, reducing their overall rest.
- Sleep-related conditions – Such as night terrors, or restless legs, particularly for children with neurological or physical conditions.
Impact on families
When a child doesn’t sleep well, it can affect the whole household or care network. If you’re supporting a child with sleep difficulties, you may feel the effects on your own energy levels, mood, or mental health. It’s common to feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn.
Recognising this impact is important. No one should feel alone in dealing with sleep-related challenges – and support should include everyone involved in the child’s well-being.
How sleep can impact mental health
Lack of sleep can make some mental health issues and anxiety worse for those with SEND. A tired child may find it harder to cope with sensory input, struggle with following routines, or managing their emotions. This can lead to withdrawal, behavioural challenges, low mood, emotional-based school avoidance or general anxiety. It’s always advisable to reach out to your GP if you’re concerned about any change in your child’s mental health.
Research suggests that children with Autism or ADHD don’t always produce enough natural melatonin. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that is triggered by darkness and it helps us to feel sleepy. So, if your body produces less of this hormone, it can make it harder to fall into a deep, restorative sleep – adding another layer of difficulty when managing everyday life.
If you’re a parent/carer or know an autistic young teenager/young person and they’re experiencing sleep difficulties, we have a great article on our Young People’s Hub which may help.
Ways to support better sleep
Here are some strategies to help improve sleep and support well-being at the same time:
Build a consistent, calming bedtime routine:
Structure and routine can help ease anxiety. A visual or predictable bedtime sequence – using picture cards, timers, or calming activities – can help signal that it’s time to wind down.
Adapt the sleep environment
Many children with SEND have sensory preferences. Consider blackout blinds, white noise machines, or weighted blankets (with professional advice and under supervision) to create a more soothing space.
Limit screen time before bed
Try switching off devices at least an hour before sleep. Activities like reading, listening to calming music, or gentle movement can be more sleep friendly.
Encourage movement and outdoor time
Physical activity during the day can support better sleep and boost mood. Even short periods of fresh air or gentle exercise can help.
Seek support when needed
If sleep is a long-term issue that’s affecting mental health, speak to your GP, school SENCO, or a local support service. You may be referred to a sleep clinic or school nurse.
Services and support
If you’re supporting a child who struggles with sleep and it’s affecting their mood or well-being, know that you’re not alone. Support is out there – for both you and the child you care for. Every child deserves the chance to wake up feeling rested and ready for the day ahead.
Kids SEND sleep service
Our trained sleep practitioners offer non-judgmental support tailored to the unique needs of children and young people with SEND. Whether it’s difficulty falling asleep or frequent wake-ups, we’re here to help.
Our Sleep Service offers personalised support through workshops, one-to-one phone clinics, hints & tips videos, and practical guidance – helping you find what works best for your family.
This service is available in the regions listed below.
North East Lincolnshire SEND sleep service
For families in the North East Lincolnshire area.
Trusted organisations
Here are some trusted organisations who offer support and guidance for children and young people with SEND, and their families, struggling with sleep challenges:
The Sleep Charity
Offers tailored advice for children with additional needs, and their families, struggling with sleep.
Cerebra
Provides specialist sleep services for children living with a brain condition.
Contact
Provides information, resources and workshops for families with disabled children, including help with sleep and managing stress.