Clocking out: Daylight saving time’s impact on students

Jessica Holgado, Contributing Writer

As we prepare to change our clocks for daylight saving time, I feel both frustrated and concerned. Gaining an extra hour of sleep when we turn back the clocks sounds nice, but the reality is that this change can disrupt our lives — especially those of students.

While the saying “spring forward, fall back” is easy to remember, the effects run much deeper. In spring, we lose an hour of sleep, and even though we gain it back in the fall, the adjustment can still throw us off balance. This disruption often leads to confusion and fatigue, making it hard to stay focused and engaged.

These clock changes can also affect our mood and productivity. Students already face plenty of academic pressure and these disruptions can add to their stress, making it difficult to keep up with responsibilities. 

As winter approaches, we lose about two minutes of sunlight each day, according to Almanac. While that may seem small, it can really throw our internal clocks out of sync. Many students struggle to get enough sleep, and the time change only makes things worse. I have felt like a zombie at times, dragging myself through classes while trying to concentrate.

When we do not get enough sleep, focusing becomes nearly impossible. It is frustrating to sit in class, knowing you should be paying attention, yet feeling your eyelids getting heavy and your mind wandering. Simple concepts can suddenly feel complex, making it hard to remember important information.

The decrease in daylight really affects my energy and motivation. As the sun sets earlier, I feel less driven to tackle my schoolwork. On tough days, just getting out of bed or finishing assignments can feel like a big challenge. This struggle gets worse in winter, making it harder to stay positive.

Weather and sunlight also play a big role in my mood. On rainy days, I like to cozy up in bed, watch a movie and enjoy the comforting atmosphere. In contrast, bright, sunny days boost my energy and inspire me to wake up early, pack a picnic or go for a run to enjoy the warmth.

When the days become dark and cold, my body naturally shifts into relaxation mode. I find comfort in lighting candles and curling up with a good book at home. However, the early darkness can be a bit disorienting; while it is nice to unwind, it often makes me feel sleepy sooner than I would like.

Adjusting to a new schedule adds more stress and anxiety. With so much academic pressure, changes to our sleep routines can feel overwhelming. For some students, this transition is not just about losing an hour; it can worsen existing mental health issues or create new ones.

Recognizing these challenges is crucial as we navigate school life. Schools should prioritize mental health alongside academics, and offer resources like time management workshops to help students deal with the effects of daylight saving time.

I have found that establishing healthy routines can truly make a difference as we navigate these changes. Simple things like sticking to a regular sleep schedule, cutting down on screen time before bed and finding ways to unwind have helped me feel more balanced. 

And honestly — getting regular exercise is good for our bodies and boosts our mood too. On those cold winter days when everything feels heavy, a brisk walk or a quick workout can give us the energy and motivation we need to tackle schoolwork.

Schools and communities need to support each other during this time. Imagine a school where everyone feels comfortable sharing their struggles and discussing the effects of daylight saving time without fear of judgment. Schools could hold workshops or create safe spaces to talk about mental health and coping strategies. 

We also need to think about whether or not daylight saving time is still even a good idea. The negative effects, especially for students, should not be overlooked. 

Originally, daylight saving time was invented to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer and to save energy, according to Webexhibits. However, with modern technology and changes in our daily lives, we no longer need it, as it only serves to disrupt sleep and reduce productivity.

Let us focus on what truly helps our health and productivity instead of sticking to old traditions. We can adapt to these changes, such as eliminating daylight saving time or implementing flexible school schedules, and support one another. This way, we can ensure every student has the chance to succeed, no matter what challenges come with these adjustments.