Hey Marcella, 2 thoughts foryou, even though you function OK during the day, if you are not getting your full 7 or 8 hours sleep you are most likely still operating well below your optimum levels, so imagine how well you would feel if you did get better sleep! Also I know sometimes it can be difficult with family etc., but have you actually tried going to bed at 7.30 or whatever time you fall asleep? - if you did and you slept right through til 4am that would be your ideal sleep hours. then imagine how much you could get done in the wee hours of the morning not to mention extra health benefits from better sleep. I know from own experience I used to stay up til 10.30pm but would lie awake until after midnight. I tried a few bed times and now i am in bed by 9 these days (just outlast my 10 year old daughter) and usually wake around 5.30 and can do some work and things or go for a walk in the warmer months. I also found I felt heaps more energy during the day. We each have our own perfect sleep time zones!
regards
ian