News
November 04, 2025
Why the time change can really throw off your mood — and an Ontario psychotherapist's tips to cope
Ontario psychotherapist explains the time change associated with daylight saving time can cause sleep disruptions, which can adversely impact mental health.
**Why the time change can really throw off your mood — and an Ontario psychotherapist's tips to cope**
The annual ritual of springing forward or falling back might seem like a minor inconvenience, but according to an Ontario psychotherapist, the time change associated with Daylight Saving Time can have a significant impact on your mental well-being. The shift, while only an hour, can disrupt our natural sleep patterns, leading to a host of negative consequences for our mood and overall mental health.
The primary culprit is the disruption of our circadian rhythm, the body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles. When we suddenly shift our schedule, even by an hour, it can throw this delicate system out of sync. This can manifest as difficulty falling asleep, waking up earlier than usual, or feeling groggy and unrested throughout the day.
These sleep disruptions aren't just about feeling tired. They can have a cascading effect on our mental state. Reduced sleep quality can lead to increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, and heightened anxiety levels. For individuals already struggling with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, the time change can exacerbate their symptoms.
The psychotherapist emphasizes that the impact isn't purely psychological. Sleep deprivation can also affect our physical health, weakening our immune system and making us more susceptible to illness. This further contributes to feelings of stress and unease, creating a vicious cycle.
So, what can be done to mitigate the negative effects of the time change? The Ontario psychotherapist offers several practical tips. Start by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule in the days leading up to the change. Go to bed and wake up 15-20 minutes earlier (or later, depending on the direction of the time change) each day. This allows your body to adapt more smoothly to the new schedule.
Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is also crucial. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends, to help regulate your circadian rhythm. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness techniques, to prepare your body for sleep.
Exposure to natural light is another key factor. Spend time outdoors during the day, especially in the morning, to help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. If natural light is limited, consider using a light therapy lamp.
Finally, be patient with yourself. It can take several days, or even weeks, for
The annual ritual of springing forward or falling back might seem like a minor inconvenience, but according to an Ontario psychotherapist, the time change associated with Daylight Saving Time can have a significant impact on your mental well-being. The shift, while only an hour, can disrupt our natural sleep patterns, leading to a host of negative consequences for our mood and overall mental health.
The primary culprit is the disruption of our circadian rhythm, the body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles. When we suddenly shift our schedule, even by an hour, it can throw this delicate system out of sync. This can manifest as difficulty falling asleep, waking up earlier than usual, or feeling groggy and unrested throughout the day.
These sleep disruptions aren't just about feeling tired. They can have a cascading effect on our mental state. Reduced sleep quality can lead to increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, and heightened anxiety levels. For individuals already struggling with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, the time change can exacerbate their symptoms.
The psychotherapist emphasizes that the impact isn't purely psychological. Sleep deprivation can also affect our physical health, weakening our immune system and making us more susceptible to illness. This further contributes to feelings of stress and unease, creating a vicious cycle.
So, what can be done to mitigate the negative effects of the time change? The Ontario psychotherapist offers several practical tips. Start by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule in the days leading up to the change. Go to bed and wake up 15-20 minutes earlier (or later, depending on the direction of the time change) each day. This allows your body to adapt more smoothly to the new schedule.
Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is also crucial. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends, to help regulate your circadian rhythm. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness techniques, to prepare your body for sleep.
Exposure to natural light is another key factor. Spend time outdoors during the day, especially in the morning, to help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. If natural light is limited, consider using a light therapy lamp.
Finally, be patient with yourself. It can take several days, or even weeks, for
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