The Dark Side of Daylight Savings Time

By Chloe Haynes

So, you're curious about Daylight Saving Time (DST) and whether it's as great as it seems? Let's dive into it and explore the downsides of Daylight Savings. The main purpose of Daylight Saving Time is to make the most of daylight during the summer months when the days are longer. By adjusting our clocks, we can align our daily routines with the natural daylight patterns. 

Daylight Saving Time is a system where we adjust our clocks to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. It's a way to make our days feel longer and enjoy more sunlight in the evenings. In the spring, we "spring forward" by moving our clocks forward by one hour, typically in the early hours of a Sunday. This means that we lose an hour of sleep but gain an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. In the fall, we "fall back" by moving our clocks back by one hour, usually on a Sunday. This gives us an extra hour of sleep but results in shorter daylight hours in the evenings. 

The main purpose of Daylight Saving Time is to make the most of daylight during the summer months when the days are longer. By adjusting our clocks, we can align our daily routines with the natural daylight patterns. This allows us to have more daylight in the evenings, which can seem beneficial for various reasons.  For example, it provides opportunities for outdoor activities, such as sports, gardening, or simply enjoying the extended daylight. So what's so bad about that? 

You know that feeling when the clocks spring forward or fall back? It messes with our internal clocks, doesn't it? That's right, the time change can throw off our sleep patterns. It's like our bodies are saying, "Wait, what time is it?" This disruption can lead to sleep deprivation, which, let's face it, is never fun. And guess what? It doesn't just affect our mood and energy levels. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, there is a 24% increase in risk of heart attacks on the Monday after the spring time changed.

 Now, let's talk about the impact Daylight Savings has on our health. Our bodies have an internal clock called the circadian rhythm, Daylight Savings can mess with that too. It throws off our sleep-wake cycle, and that's not good for our overall well-being. Research suggests that this disruption can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. A study conducted by the University of Colorado found that the rate of fatal car accidents increases in the days following the springtime change. It is said that U.S. fatal car crashes spiked 6% during the workweek after daylight saving time. That's because the sudden shift in sleep patterns can make us feel drowsy on the roads. 

Daylight savings also has been shown to decrease our motivation. We all want to be productive, but losing an hour of sleep can throw a wrench in our plans. After the springtime changed, studies by Dr Robert Oexman have shown that the Monday blues become a real thing. Productivity at work or school takes a hit, and you instantly lose all motivation. This decrease in productivity can lead to many more issues. 

Believe it or not, DST can have an impact on the economy too. With the time change, there's a disruption in business operations and coordination. Think about it: if some states observe DST and others don't, it can create confusion for businesses, especially those involved in interstate commerce. This misalignment can lead to scheduling conflicts, missed meetings, and logistical challenges.

We've touched on the effects of DST on sleep patterns and overall health, but let's not forget about its potential impact on mental health. Some people may experience seasonal depression due to DST.  The sudden shift in daylight can disrupt our body's natural rhythm and affect our mood. This disruption can lead to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and mood changes. Additionally, the shift in daylight hours can affect our exposure to natural light, which plays a crucial role in regulating our mood and overall well-being. So, while it may seem like a small adjustment to some, Daylight Saving Time can have a real impact on our mental health.

So, as we've explored the various aspects of Daylight Saving Time, it's clear that there are some drawbacks and concerns associated with it. From disrupted sleep patterns to economic and logistical challenges, it's no wonder that some people are questioning the need for this time change. While the intention may have been to save energy and make better use of daylight, it's important to consider the broader impacts on our health, well-being, and daily lives. Ultimately, the decision to continue or change Daylight Saving Time rests in the hands of policymakers and society as a whole. It's a topic that sparks debate and discussion, with valid arguments on both sides. Perhaps in the future, we'll see a shift towards a more consistent approach to timekeeping that takes into account the needs and preferences of different industries, individuals, and communities