How Common Is DSPS in ADHD?

PostedSeptember 11, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 12, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Research shows that the DSPS prevalence of ADHD rates is significantly higher than in the general population. Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a circadian rhythm disorder where a person’s natural sleep cycle is shifted later than usual, making it difficult to fall asleep and wake up at socially expected times. For people with ADHD, this shift can be particularly disruptive, as it compounds the challenges already associated with attention regulation and executive functioning.

DSPS as an ADHD Sleep Disorder

Studies suggest that up to half of individuals with ADHD may experience some form of delayed sleep phase. This makes DSPS one of the most common ADHD sleep disorders. Symptoms often include:

Staying awake until the early morning hours.

Struggling to wake up for school or work.

Daytime fatigue worsens inattention and mood swings.

Because these difficulties overlap with ADHD traits, DSPS may go unrecognised, being mistaken for procrastination, poor time management, or lack of motivation.

Why It Matters

Understanding the delayed sleep phase connection is important, as treating DSPS can reduce the severity of ADHD symptoms. Interventions such as light therapy, melatonin supplementation, and strict sleep routines can help reset the circadian rhythm.

The high DSPS prevalence in ADHD populations shows just how closely sleep and attention are linked. Addressing DSPS alongside ADHD treatment can improve focus, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing. For more on ADHD sleep disorders like DSPS, consider reaching out to providers like ADHD Certify.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sleep disorders.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.