Breaking a sleep pattern

United States
August 10, 2009 1:05pm CST
For the past 5 years, I have had a sleep/wake schedule of 4 a.m. to 2 p.m. My doctor told me that this is an unhealthy sleep pattern, so for the past few nights I have tried to go to bed earlier. Unfortunately, I usually end up just tossing and turning in bed until my usual 4 a.m. sleep time. Does anybody have any tips for me? As far as how to break my sleep pattern?
2 people like this
2 responses
kykidd
@kykidd (6812)
• United States
10 Aug 09
I have gone through spells like this as well, and I am sure the doctor would figure it to be unhealthy, just because it isn't normal. But you are getting plenty of sleep, why does it matter at what time you are asleep? As far as breaking the habit, my suggestion would be to stay up all night. Just don't go to bed at all if you can. Maybe drink a little coffee or soda to help you stay awake. Since you are already awake until 4 am, it shouldn't be too hard to stay up a little bit longer. Then if you know some people who are home, and not working, maybe you can invite them over to help you stay awake until evening. Play some games, or just sit and chat. If there are other people around you, it will probably be a bit easier to stay awake.
1 person likes this
DiwansSong
@DiwansSong (16)
• United States
10 Aug 09
That's exactly what I told my doctor. " If I am still getting 8 hours of sleep, what difference does it make if I go to sleep at 4 a.m. and wake up at 2 p.m.? However, he told me that there are physical and psychological ill- effects related to sleeping late at night. I don't remember specifically what he said though.
hsofyan
@hsofyan (3446)
• Jakarta, Indonesia
10 Aug 09
My sleep managed by my body, not by my mind. So I do not sleep regularly. I'll sleep when sleepy. What time do I sleep? I do not care. Your doctor may be correct. But I did not want to dawdle in bed. Doctor gave me sleeping pills. But then I stop, because it is not the correct and healthy. Then I try sports in the afternoon. The result is quite effective. Happy sleeping...