Sleep Patterns in Autistic Children and Adolescents Severely Impacted by COVID-19 Lockdown

New research indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown had a profound effect on the sleep patterns of autistic children and adolescents. The study, conducted by researchers at Qatar University, found that disturbances in sleep quality and duration were common among this population, with many experiencing increased sleep disorders. The lockdown, which altered daily routines for nearly everyone, further exacerbated these issues, with 34 studies included in the systematic review indicating significant declines in sleep quality and duration among caregivers as well.

Key Takeaways:

• The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown significantly impacted sleep patterns in autistic children and adolescents, with 31 studies focusing on this population finding decreased sleep quality and increased sleep disorders.
• Autistic males and mothers were the predominant demographic groups in the studies, with the most common negative impacts being decreased sleep quality and increased sleep disorders.
• The lockdown resulted in a significant decline in sleep quality and duration among caregivers, with all three caregiver-focused studies indicating this trend.
• Strategies are needed to maintain or improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of negative sleep patterns in autistic populations during extreme circumstances such as lockdowns.

Statistics:

• 34 studies were included in the systematic review, with 31 focusing on autistic children and adolescents and three on caregivers.
• 31 of the studies found decreased sleep quality among autistic children and adolescents.
• 30 of the studies reported increased sleep disorders among autistic children and adolescents.
• 100% of caregiver-focused studies (n=3) found significant declines in sleep quality and duration.

Sources:

• Acta Psychologica, "Sleep patterns in autistic children and adolescents and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: A systematic review," 2025;258:105258.
• Elsevier, "Acta Psychologica," www.journals.elsevier.com/acta-psychologica/'
• Qatar University, Dept. of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.