Sleep pattern problems; what should I do?

Question

I'm a night owl, but to the extreme. Typically, I go to bed between 2-4am and wake up sometime in the afternoon. As I've figured out, during the day, I'm usually sleepy and I have no energy, but at night and into the hours of the early morning, I'm extremely awake and energetic. I've tried (and failed) multiple times to reset my sleep schedule to what I need it to be for school (going to bed between 10-11pm and waking up at 6am), but it just doesn't work. I wake up early and feel like crap the entire day, and then I STILL can't sleep at night. Even during the school year, I typically sleep very little at night, wake up early, go to school, and come home and sleep for 3-4 hours, only to go to bed late that night and have the cycle repeat. This is just not good for normal life, where everything works during the day, not at night. 
This all started when I was around 14 (I'm 16 now) and has progressed to where it is today. I don't know if it is just a phase, as it could be genetics. My mom has the exact same problems, and so do my grandparents, but to a lesser extent.
So, the big question is, what should I do? 
Should I try to reset my sleeping patterns again? Should I just suck it up and walk around all day like a zombie? Should I go to the doctor and discuss my issues there? 
Thanks in advance to anyone with an answer!

Peter Shields · Accepted Answer

I have similar issues. Some things that can help are:

Skip your afternoon nap. This will make it easier to sleep at night at a reasonable hour.
Don't go on computer or video games at least 1.5 hours before you want to sleep. The interactivity and bright visuals keep your mind 'buzzing' for quite a while afterwards, and can make you restless.
When you are tired, sometimes doing 25 pushups or some sort of exercise can get your blood moving, and result in you feeling more alert.
Do short logic puzzles or other things to make you focus and become more alert every now and then.

FALL ASLEEP TO THIS!!!               http://www.rainymood.com/

Basically you HAVE to adhere to the standard sleeping patterns, because jobs etc. don't allow for otherwise (I don't think night jobs are good to support a family).

Try and find the root of your troubles. Here are a possible few:

Having regular intake of caffeine (even in the morning).
Mildly low blood pressure can sometimes make you feel fatigued (hence why the exercise helps too).
Iron deficiency can also make you feel fatigued,

sims3wiz · Answer

You should remember to not drink dairy products before you sleep and you should also try avoiding caffeine or chocolate. Usually people can't sleep because they drink too much amount of coffee in a day. Try to reduce or stop drinking coffee. Try doing some sports or something which you enjoy. It can really help. This is not a health concern and you shouldn't have to see a doctor. I had a problem like this before and I improved it by forgetting about it, and getting busier in life. You can also improve by putting some music on while you are trying to sleep. Put some relaxing song on.

zinkyskittle · Answer

This sleep pattern is unusual, but it may be passed down through heredity. You mean you didn't have this problem before? This could be serious, but maybe you could ask your mother (she has the same problem, right?) and see what she says. 

It is better to consult a doctor and to heed his advice. After all, a doctor has definitely came across patients with unusual sleep patterns too. 

I hope this had helped! :D

kellana · Answer

maybe see a doctor..you sound quite intelligent so it would be a shame to miss out on your education because you are so tired. you somehow have to reset that clock...there are many ways to try..but i think your doctor may help you the most...haveing an afternoon nap would not help...

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Sleep pattern problems; what should I do?

4 Answers