The hour difference that occurs twice a year by Daylight Savings Time (DST) yields more consequences than expected, and the most recent ‘Spring Forward’ reflects this. At Mary Determan, MSW, LLC, therapists received reports from families of increased behavioral issues and other results of this change. A national review, according to Psychology Today, found that the fall change results in an 11% increase in depressive episodes, along with exacerbated symptoms of immune-compromising diseases. Specifically, the body’s circadian rhythm is disrupted, causing these changes. While there is an abundance of research on adults, there is much less for children.
The next time our clocks switch will be in the fall – there are ways to adjust schedules and routines to prepare for that transition as it gets closer. The National Sleep Foundation suggests a gradual change to a child’s schedule, at least one week prior to the change, as that is the average amount of time the body’s sleep patterns require to adjust. During this week, modifying routines by ten to fifteen minutes has been shown to be effective. If this is not achievable for both night and morning routines, advancing the wake up time may take priority. Eating habits are also greatly affected by DST, so tailoring your family’s meal times gradually over one week may help ensure your child’s diet quality does not decrease, which would in turn decrease energy levels. All of these factors, such as hunger patterns, cause distress both at home and in school. Although this may be a trial and error process for what works best for your family, finding the right adjustments will help ease this transition next time.
Katy Lemar, BSW