Caregiver-reported sleep problems and suicidality in autistic youth: findings from a sleep diary study - Takeaways - MDSpire

Caregiver-reported sleep problems and suicidality in autistic youth: findings from a sleep diary study

  • By

  • Hangsel Sanguino

  • Chris A. Clark

  • Kailyn M. Turner

  • Stephanie J. Howe

  • Carly A. McMorris

  • May 4, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Sleep problems affect 40-80% of Autistic youth and are linked to a significantly higher suicide risk compared to the general population.

  • 2

    In a study, 88% of caregivers reported sleep issues in their Autistic youth, with 64.7% indicating some level of suicidal behavior.

  • 3

    Daytime sleepiness and poor sleep quality were specifically associated with increased suicidal ideation in Autistic youth.

  • 4

    Total sleep problems did not correlate with overall suicidality scores, highlighting the unique impact of specific sleep difficulties.

  • 5

    The findings suggest that addressing sleep issues could be a critical component in developing suicide prevention strategies for Autistic youth.

Original Source(s)

Caregiver-reported sleep problems and suicidality in autistic youth: findings from a sleep diary study

  • by Hangsel Sanguino, Chris A. Clark, Kailyn M. Turner, Stephanie J. Howe, Carly A. McMorris

  • May 4, 2026

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