Summary
ADHD is associated with single nucleotide polymorphisms in circadian clock genes that promote evening orientation and sleep disturbances, suggesting a circadian component to the disorder. Timed bright light therapy can re-align circadian physiology toward morningness, reduce sleep problems, and improve core ADHD symptoms, offering a cost-effective, non-pharmacological treatment avenue.
Key Findings
- SNPs in circadian clock genes were associated with core ADHD symptoms, increased evening orientation, and frequent sleep problems.
- Bright light therapy was effective for shifting circadian phase toward morningness and reducing sleep disturbances in ADHD populations.
- Alterations in exposure and sensitivity to photic input may underlie circadian misalignment in ADHD, suggesting light-based interventions could address root causes rather than just symptoms.
Categories
Sleep & Circadian Health: Reviews circadian clock gene polymorphisms associated with phase-delayed rhythms and sleep disturbances in ADHD.
Student Learning: Addresses ADHD symptoms, evening chronotype, and bright light therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention relevant to children and adolescents.
Mood & Mental Wellness: Bright light therapy shown to improve overall ADHD symptoms through circadian re-alignment.
Author(s)
M Korman, D Palm, A Uzoni, F Faltraco
Publication Year
2020
Number of Citations
34
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