Trump’s daylight saving plan and sleep: What to know

President-elect Donald Trump has made a bold announcement on Truth Social last Friday, declaring his intention to eliminate daylight saving time (DST) in the United States. This move has sparked a debate among experts, with some suggesting that the elimination of DST could have significant benefits for health and wellness.

DST, which involves adjusting clocks forward one hour in the spring and back one hour in the fall, has been a long-standing practice in the U.S. dating back to World War I. However, Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist, supports Trump’s goal to do away with DST, citing the disruptions in sleep patterns that occur during the time change. Studies have shown that the transition to DST can lead to decreased sleep duration, increased fatigue, and cognitive performance issues.

Furthermore, Dr. Murray highlighted the impact of DST on mood disorders, particularly depression, and an increased risk of stroke during the time switch. Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert also emphasized the negative effects of the time change on sleep quality and overall well-being. He noted that eliminating DST could help maintain a consistent sleep schedule, leading to improved alertness, productivity, and mental health.

While the elimination of DST may offer several health benefits, experts also acknowledge potential downsides. Alpert raised concerns about the impact of shorter evening daylight hours on people’s motivation to engage in outdoor activities and social interactions after work. He also noted that the adjustment to not having DST could be challenging for many individuals, as it has become a symbol of seasonal change for some.

Despite potential challenges, both experts believe that people will adapt to the elimination of DST over time and ultimately thrive. Alpert suggested that while there may be initial backlash, the compelling arguments for eliminating DST could lead to long-term benefits for health and well-being.

In conclusion, the debate over DST elimination raises important considerations about the impact of time changes on sleep, mood, and overall health. As discussions continue, it will be crucial to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of this proposed change to ensure the well-being of the population.