TPP 502: Alex Mortlock Explains Circadian Rhythm & Complex Sleep Challenges

Today we’re diving into the nuanced world of circadian rhythm sleep syndromes, and how biological and environmental factors intersect in shaping our children’s sleep. My guest is Alex Mortlock, a registered clinical psychologist who has been in practice since 2010, with training rooted in evidence-based approaches to mental health. Alex will help us unpack what’s actually happening when a child’s sleep rhythm is out of sync, and why this is so often misunderstood. We talk about practical strategies, the role of light exposure and light therapy, and how melatonin can be used thoughtfully to support regulation.  About Alex Mortlock Alex Mortlock has been a registered clinical psychologist since 2010, trained at the University of Canterbury with a focus on evidence-based approaches to mental health assessment and treatment. His work is grounded in psychological science, with an emphasis on the interplay of emotion, cognition, and motivation. He uses evidence-based methods to help people make positive changes in their behaviour, fostering an environment of authenticity, acceptance, and understanding. Throughout his career, Alex has had the privilege of witnessing growth and transformation in people from diverse backgrounds — experiences that have reinforced his belief that, with the right support and guidance, everyone has the capacity to flourish. He lives in Christchurch, New Zealand with his wife, who is also a clinical psychologist, and their two over-analysed children. Curiosity, compassion, courage, and flexibility are the values that guide him through the professional and personal challenges that human life presents.   Things you'll learn from this episode  How circadian rhythms shape sleep patterns and why they matter for children’s overall health Why conditions like delayed sleep phase, advanced sleep phase, and non-24-hour sleep disorders can disrupt typical sleep cycles How neurodivergence can influence light sensitivity and circadian regulation Why gradual light exposure, environmental adjustments, and low-dose melatonin can help realign sleep rhythms How habits like late-night screen use can interfere with healthy sleep patterns When to seek professional support and how parents can practically support their child’s sleep development Resources mentioned Alex Mortlock’s website Late Nights, Later Days: The Under-Recognized Impact of Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome in ADHD (Additude Magazine) Reset Your Inner Clock: The Drug-Free Way to Your Best-Ever Sleep, Mood, and Energy by Michael Termin, PhD Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Joint Hypermobility Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (National Institute of Health) Article on Light Boxes (Yale School of Medicine) Light Therapy Visors (results page from Amazon search)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices