Advanced Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder – What is it?

Advanced sleep-wake phase disorder (ASP) is another circadian rhythm disorder similar to DSP except that a person with ASP will naturally want to fall asleep a few hours before what most consider normal bedtime. These people will want to go to bed between 6 P.M. and 9 P.M. and wake up very early, usually, between 2 A.M. and 5 A.M. Just like DSP, sleep time and quality of someone aligns with what is considered normal and sufficient for their age. The only abnormality is they need to go to sleep a few hours earlier than most people.

What causes it?

ASP is quite rare and only affects 1% of middle-aged adults, but is a little more common in older adults and seniors. A genetic link has been found between most individuals impacted by ASP. Environmental factors may also play a role in ASP.

Possible solutions

Bright light therapy is also a possible solution to ASP. Bright light will help encourage sleep at the desired times and also help to re-establish a more typical circadian rhythm.

Why get treatment?

The biggest reason to seek treatment is because of the strain ASP can cause in a person’s social life. Most social engagements occur in the late afternoon and evening, revolving around most people’s work life. If followed, the “early bird” sleep schedule lends itself to more job opportunities but makes it almost impossible to experience a healthy and more typical social life.