ADHD – a modern menace
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has become a modern menace for millions of children and adults alike.
It is characterised by problems with concentration, impulse control, organisation and memory and makes life difficult for the child affected by the condition as well as parents, teachers and other care-givers; but, most significantly it often leads to a life-time dependency on drugs.
Sleep difficulties and ADHD
The problem, however, is that sleep disorder screening is not often done and so problems go undiagnosed.
Does technology play a part?
“the escalation of ADHD cases in the 1990’s and 2000’s coincided with the rise of the digital age, and the widespread use of personal technology that now pervades our daily lives.
These devices – our laptops, tablets and cell phones – that enable so much convenience and connection, also threaten the quality and quantity of sleep.
The night-time exposure to the light they emit interferes with the body’s release of melatonin, disrupting sleep cycles and diminishing time spent in the deepest, most restorative phases of sleep.More than ever before in history, we must work to create the darkness that is so essential to sleep.
Keeping our bedrooms, and our children’s bedrooms, gadget-free sanctuaries for sleep is one important way to guard against chronic sleep deprivation.”
SleepSpec a non medicated solution
These glasses contain scientifically engineered amber lenses, which filter out the blue light which suppresses the production of melatonin.
“The glasses, however, need to be taken off in complete darkness, as even the smallest amount of light can signal the brain to stop producing melatonin and to wake up,” says Daniel.
“Many children suffer from night terrors or are scared of the dark. If any light is needed, make sure that it is one with an orange or red colour as this contains little or no blue light and so will not disturb sleep,” he says.
