Do I Have Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder?

Do you experience a persistent or recurrent pattern of sleep disruption that is due to an alteration of the circadian system or to a misalignment between the endogenous (internal) circadian rhythm and the sleep-wake schedule required by your environment or social or professional schedule?

Does the sleep disruption lead to excessive sleepiness or insomnia, or both?

Does the sleep disturbance cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. Our bodies have an internal clock that makes us feel sleepy at night and awake during daytime. But if this rhythm is disrupted, it can become a circadian rhythm sleep disorder. The disorder comes with several symptoms, such as depression or feeling sleepy during the day. What may help is to get a regular sleep schedule. If your symptoms cause problems and impairment in your daily life, it may be important to discuss this with your doctor.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. Your doctor may refer you to a sleep medicine specialist who will probably ask you first to keep a journal of your sleep hours. You could also opt for a wrist monitor instead that measures when you are awake and when you are asleep. The specialist may want to conduct a sleep study, in which you will get a heart monitor or a breathing monitor, or both. Treatment of the disorder can include medications, such as melatonin, but sometimes changing your sleep routine and light exposure may be enough.