As the amount of daylight increases and the frigid winter months come to an end, daylight saving time  finally allows us to "spring forward." But have you ever considered the effects that one-hour change has on your body and mind?  

It’s more than just losing sleep. It can impact your mood, energy, and even how you connect with others. Understanding these effects can help us cope with the shift and feel better through it all. 

Why losing an hour disrupts your body’s internal clock 

Our circadian rhythms serve as the body’s natural 24-hour cycle, influencing everything from sleep patterns to emotional well-being. These rhythms are closely tied to the natural patterns of light and dark around us, which is why a time shift can disrupt our internal clocks. When we spring forward, even a small one-hour change can have a ripple effect, throwing our bodies out of sync. 

Light exposure plays a key role in this disruption. As mornings become darker and evenings stretch with more daylight, it interferes with the body’s rhythm. With less light in the morning, serotonin production, the hormone that boosts our mood, decreases (2019). Meanwhile, the additional evening light delays melatonin production, the hormone that helps us sleep. As a result, instead of winding down, our bodies may struggle to settle in for the night. 

How Daylight saving time changes your mindset and relationships  

Daylight saving time can intensify conditions like anxiety, depression, and seasonal affective disorder. For those already dealing with these challenges, losing just one hour of sleep can make things feel even more overwhelming. 

The impact of daylight saving time isn't just personal, it can also affect our relationships. When we're sleep-deprived and our moods are unpredictable, it's easy to get irritable and potentially snap at the people around us.  

The changes to our routines, like having less light in the morning and more at night, can make socializing feel out of sync too. Mornings might feel isolating with less daylight, while the extended evenings can lead to overstimulation, making it harder to relax. This imbalance can change the way we engage with our families, friends, and coworkers.  

Taking care of yourself during daylight saving time 

So, what can we do to manage the impact on our mental health and social lives?  

• Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.  

• Get outside and soak up some natural light, specifically in the morning, to boost your serotonin levels. 

• Avoid napping during the day to help your body adjust more smoothly to the new sleep schedule. 

• Be kind to yourself. The time change can be tough on our bodies and minds, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. 

Daylight saving time may appear to be a minor change, but it affects nearly every aspect of our lives. Instead of simply enduring the change, consider it an invitation to check in with yourself. Notice the little shifts in your mood, energy, and relationships, and use this moment to care for yourself in ways you may have overlooked before. 

For tips on staying healthy during daylight saving time or managing work-life stress during this time change, look at our resources.