What Is DSPD?
In some cases, it can be delayed even further.
To compensate, some night owls may sleep well into the early afternoon.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
This is when the symptoms of DSPD become most apparent.
Complications
There can be serious consequences to being a night owl.
Recent research suggests that chronic DSPD increases the risk of death by around 10%.
Someone with a night owl tendency may be accused of being lazy or “lacking initiative.”
This is especially common among teenagers who are chronically sleep-deprived.
Difficulty waking up on time may lead to being chronically tardy to school or work.
There may be increased absenteeism.
Causes
DSPD is thought to affect up to 9% of the population.
It often starts in theteen yearsand may persist throughout a person’s life.
Some studies suggest that night owls may have a genetic tendency toward DSPD.
This is evidence in part by the fact that DSPD often runs in families.
Others believe that DPSD is a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and psychological factors.
Do All Night Owls Have DSPD?
Not everyone who is a night owl consider DSPD a disorder.
In general,sleeping pillsand alcohol should be avoided.
These are often ineffective and may lead to dependence.
Moreover, they may end disrupting your sleep patterns as they become less and less effective.
Your primary care provider should be able to provide you with a reference.
In the end, sleep disorders can be because of one or a multitude of things.
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