Can Daylight Saving Time Affect Your Health?

While most people adjust quickly to the time shift, for some people it may have measurable consequences, particularly in the days immediately following the time change. These may include a concerning impact on:

Heart Health

The American Heart Association reports an increase in heart attacks and strokes during the switch to daylight saving time; likely connected to the disruption of the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This increase is typically associated with the first one to three days immediately following the daylight saving transition.

According to a study of hospital admissions across the state of Michigan, there was a 24% increase in heart attacks on the Monday following the switch to DST and a 5% increase overall during that month as compared to other months.

The sudden circadian change may also affect issues such as high blood pressure in people already at risk.

Mental Health

The time shift may temporarily intensify mental health issues in certain people, particularly those prone to depression or anxiety. A change in sleep patterns may increase feelings of fatigue, stress, and aggravation in the days immediately following the time change. Adolescents often experience behavioral, learning, and attention issues when their sleep has been disrupted.

Traffic Accidents and Workplace Injuries

The number of car accidents tends to rise during the first few days after the time change. Sleep deprivation, reduced alertness, and darker mornings are thought to be contributing factors.

Lack of sleep can lead to reduced focus and coordination, increasing the likelihood of on-the-job accidents. Studies have indicated an increase in workplace injuries, especially in jobs requiring physical labor.

Who is Most Affected?

Certain people are more vulnerable to the health effects of daylight saving time, including:

• Elderly adults
• People with pre-existing health conditions
• Shift workers
• People who already suffer from sleep disorders

Even a small disruption to their sleep schedule can lead to noticeable impacts on their health and productivity. “While most people adjust within several days, individuals with underlying sleep or cardiovascular conditions should be especially mindful of maintaining consistent sleep habits during this transition,” added Mr. Warkentin.

How Can You Make the Transition to Daylight Saving Time Easier?

• Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Gradually shift your bedtime and wake-up time by 10-15 minutes a few days before the clock change to ease the transition.
• Embrace Morning Light: Exposing yourself to natural sunlight in the morning can help reset your internal clock. More natural morning light can help preserve your circadian rhythm.
• Make Sleep a Priority: Aim for 7 – 9 hours of quality sleep each night and during the transition period. (The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults sleep 7 or more hours per night on a regular basis to promote optimal health.)
• Eliminate Sleep Disturbances: To help achieve a good night’s rest, avoid excess amounts of caffeine, alcohol, and screen exposure, one to two hours before bedtime.
• Use Caution: Avoid strenuous tasks or long drives in the days immediately following the time change, when your alertness and focus may be compromised.

Daylight saving time can be more than just an inconvenience; for some people, it can pose real health and safety risks. If you are aware of the risks and take action to minimize them, you can safely navigate this transitional time.

Your health and well-being should be your number one priority, and getting quality sleep is an important factor in living a healthy life. Learn more about the Sleep Medicine Services at Catholic Health.