Bedtime Battles: Autistic Sleep Demystified

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Why Autistic Brains Struggle with Sleep | Brain Trash Podcast

In this episode of Brain Trash, Maria Ingalla and Tabitha Arey unpack the science and lived experiences behind sleep struggles in autistic individuals. From melatonin dysregulation and altered sleep architecture to sensory processing and behavioral cycles—this episode digs into why sleep is so often misunderstood in neurodivergent care.

Whether you’re a provider, parent, or navigating your own neurodivergent sleep landscape, this one’s for you.

Topics Covered:

• Why melatonin works differently in autistic people
• What sleep architecture really looks like in autism
• How sensory needs affect rest
• The role of medication and when to consider it
• Why structure is more than just a bedtime routine

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