The end of daylight saving time impacts sleep patterns
The end of daylight saving time has led to a shift in sleep patterns as individuals in several regions adjust to an earlier sunrise and sunset. This change came into effect as clocks were set back an hour over the weekend, reports BritPanorama.
While the switch technically grants an extra hour of sleep on Sunday, many have reported feeling little benefit. Sudden changes to the internal clock can leave individuals feeling sluggish, with reports of difficulty waking in the mornings and increased alertness at night. Experts have noted this mismatch may result in fatigue during the day.
Dr. Leana Wen, a wellness specialist, explained that the body’s internal clock—known as circadian rhythm—is closely tied to light and darkness. When daylight hours shift, the body’s natural sleep signals often lag behind, meaning melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep, is released based on the previous week’s schedule. As a result, individuals may struggle to adjust quickly to the new timing.
To ease this transition, Dr. Wen suggests maintaining regular sleep and wake times and ensuring exposure to natural light in the morning. She underscores the importance of sticking to familiar bedtime routines and avoiding long naps, which can interfere with the body’s adjustment. For families, opening windows and turning on lights promptly after waking can signal the body to prepare for the day ahead.
Children and teenagers may need more time to adjust compared to adults due to their naturally varying circadian rhythms. Parents are advised to gradually shift children’s bedtimes by 10 to 15 minutes over several evenings to help ease the transition.
The implications of losing daylight extend beyond sleep; the reduction in sunlight can negatively affect mood and energy levels. The US National Institutes of Health has reported that decreased daylight may lower serotonin production, potentially leading to mood dips often referred to as the “winter blues.” For some, these changes can escalate to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and decreased motivation during winter months.
Those experiencing long-term sleep or mood disturbances—lasting over two weeks—are encouraged to consult healthcare providers. Chronic sleep issues can have broader impacts on health, including potential cardiovascular concerns. Early intervention can play a crucial role in addressing mental well-being during this seasonal transition.
As daylight saving time concludes, the challenge of adjusting to standard time remains nuanced, with individual responses varying widely. The conversation around effective coping strategies continues, particularly within changing daylight conditions.
