Delayed sleep phase syndrome and insomnia are often confused but are actually quite different.
Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a common sleep disorder that affects roughly 16 percent of adults and adolescents. These people often consider themselves “night owls” as they tend to stay up late and makeup later in the morning. They often feel more awake or sharper in the evening hours. This syndrome is not the result of another sleeping disorder, but the exact cause of this disorder is completely unknown however common it is. Let’s take a look at what DSPS is and how it can be helped.
What is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome?
DSPS is a disorder in which a person’s sleep is delayed by two or more hours beyond what is socially acceptable. This syndrome can make it extremely difficult for a person to get up at a certain time. Many scientists think DSPS is caused by an exaggerated reaction to a normal shift of the patient’s internal clock. Many people think this is a deliberate act of recklessness, but this pattern cannot be helped. Unfortunately, people with DSPS only feel tired very late at night or early in the morning. This could mean having to start their day with only two to four hours of sleep per night. As the day goes on, these patients feel more energized and continue their pattern of going to sleep late at night. So what are the signs of DSPS?
Signs of Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome
While these symptoms differ for each person, most people with DSPS may have symptoms including the inability to fall asleep or wake up at the desired time, excessive daytime sleepiness, no other sleep complications, depression, and behavioral problems. While most people think they suffer from insomnia, there is one distinction separating them. When a DSPS sufferer is allowed to choose their own sleeping schedule, they are able to fall asleep more easily. A person suffering from insomnia tends to have a bad night’s sleep when they sleep under every circumstance. If you tend to sleep in on weekends but haven’t gotten any sleep during the week, you could have DSPS. Children, adolescents, and young adults with DSPS may experience depression and other psychological problems due to daytime drowsiness and missing school or other social activities.
Treatments for Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome
Treatments for DSPS differ from person to person. Simply shifting your bedtimes may help improve your internal clock. Using a practice called “Chronotherapy” may be useful to some suffers. To delay or advance your internal clock with chronotherapy, you should move your bedtime sequentially one to three hours per night for several nights in a row until the desired bedtime is reached. This must be done on several days that are free from social activities or obligation. It is also important to practice good sleeping habits such as avoiding caffeine before sleeping, maintaining a comfortable room temperature and bedroom setting, and avoiding stimulating activities before bed. For more information on seeking help for your delayed sleep phase syndrome, you should consult a sleep specialist.
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Tags: Sleep Disorders