3 tips to avoid winter blues when clocks "fall back" from daylight saving time
Summary
When daylight saving time ends and clocks "fall back," people gain an extra hour of sleep, but the change can still disrupt sleep patterns, mood, and health. Experts recommend using light exposure, exercise, and watching for signs of depression to ease the transition and reduce risks like seasonal affective disorder (SAD).Key Facts
- Ending daylight saving time gives an extra hour of sleep but can disrupt the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm.
- Sleep disruption raises risks of heart problems and motor vehicle accidents.
- Children and older adults are especially affected by the time change.
- Reduced morning sunlight after the time change can lower mood-boosting hormones like serotonin.
- It usually takes one to two days to adjust to the one-hour time shift.
- Using bright light in the morning or special light-box lamps can help improve mood.
- Regular exercise can increase serotonin and help fight winter blues.
- Warning signs of seasonal depression include losing interest in activities and isolating from others; seeking professional help is important if these appear.
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