Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) is a sleep disorder where your body clock runs late. This means you naturally fall asleep much later—often after midnight-and struggle to wake up early, especially for work or school. It’s more than just being a “night owl.”

People with DSPS often suffer from daytime sleepiness, poor concentration, and mood changes. It commonly starts in teenagers but can continue into adulthood. It’s linked to genetics and isn’t caused by laziness or bad habits.

Doctors diagnose DSPS using sleep diaries, special watches (actigraphy), and sometimes sleep lab tests. Treatment involves light therapy, melatonin, and lifestyle changes like reducing screen time before bed and sticking to a fixed sleep schedule-even on weekends.

There’s no permanent cure, but with consistent treatment, people can train their body clocks and feel energetic again. If untreated, it may lead to depression or poor performance in school or work.

If you struggle to sleep on time and it’s affecting your life, talk to a doctor. You might just need to reset your clock!