Every year, millions of people in the United States begrudgingly change their clocks for daylight saving time, losing or gaining an hour of sleep in the process. However, a recent survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) reveals that a majority of Americans are ready to abandon this biannual ritual. The survey found that 64% of Americans support eliminating seasonal time changes, with public health and safety being the top concern for 27% of respondents.
Daylight saving time was first introduced in the U.S. in 1918 as an energy conservation measure during World War I, although subsequent studies have shown little to no energy savings. Contrary to popular belief, farmers did not advocate for daylight saving time and actually called for its repeal in 1919 due to disruptions in their workday. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 standardized daylight saving time across most of the U.S., with the exception of Hawaii, Arizona, and certain U.S. territories.
Many Americans are now fed up with the clock-changing tradition, leading to a bipartisan bill in Congress to eliminate it. The “Sunshine Protection Act,” sponsored by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, aims to make daylight saving time the permanent standard time. Proponents of the bill argue that an extra hour of daylight in the evenings would have economic benefits, citing research that consumer spending drops after the end of daylight saving time in November.
However, experts advise against permanent daylight saving time and recommend sticking with standard time. Psychologist Shelby Harris of Sleepopolis explains that permanently adopting daylight saving time would disrupt sleep patterns, especially in the morning, leading to difficulties waking up and falling asleep. Additionally, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and other organizations support standard time due to its alignment with the body’s natural circadian rhythm and the potential health risks associated with darker mornings under daylight saving time.
While the debate over daylight saving time continues, experts provide tips for coping with the time change. They suggest gradually adjusting sleep schedules before the switch, using bright light exposure in the morning, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed. On the day of the time change, it is important to set and stick to the new alarm time, avoid daytime napping, and seek bright light exposure. After the time change, maintaining the new sleep schedule, regular exercise, and a healthy diet are recommended.
In conclusion, the push to eliminate daylight saving time in the United States has gained momentum, with a majority of Americans expressing support for ending the biannual time changes. While the economic benefits of permanent daylight saving time are touted by some, experts argue that sticking with standard time is more conducive to healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being. In the meantime, individuals can take steps to minimize the effects of the time change on their sleep and daily routines.
