k”—a phrase many Americans repeat twice yearly to remember the time change.
But as individuals lose sleep and their routines get disrupted, it’s time to ask: Why are we still sticking to this outdated tradition?
Daylight Savings Time (DST) has been a part of American life for over a century, but the question is: is it still necessary?
The Farmers’ Almanac states that daylight savings time aims to make the most of natural daylight. DST was initially a useful tool, as it helped preserve energy and maximize daylight during World War I.
As technology and modern lifestyles have advanced though, DST has become outdated and even harmful. The original purpose of saving energy no longer applies, and the clock changes can disrupt sleep, cause health issues, and create confusion with scheduling.
Additionally, not all regions benefit from it, and some have stopped using it altogether. Overall, DST has become more of a hassle than a help.
Millions of people’s sleep habits are disrupted each year as we spring forward or fall back.
Experts like Brant Hasler, a sleep researcher at the University of of Pittsburgh, explain that the transition disrupts our circadian rhythm—our body’s internal “clock” that regulates sleep, metabolism, and other essential functions. This shift, similar to jet lag, makes it harder to sleep and stay alert
Dr. Indira Gurubhagavatula from the University of Pennsylvania warns that while adjusting might take a week, the effects can trigger chronic sleep problems lasting for months. Given these risks, it’s time to reconsider the need for daylight savings time.
Research also shows the time change can also increase heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, overdoses, and suicides.
DST disrupts sleep cycles and impacts mood, mental abilities, and productivity. DST’s energy savings are questionable because energy consumption has changed dramatically due to modern technology, providing little savings.
The United States should eliminate DST, as many countries have already done. Countries like Japan, China, and India have never adopted DST, and some European nations have decided to abandon it, though the European Union has not yet reached an agreement to end the practice.
Eliminating DST could simplify daily life, prevent unnecessary health risks, and better align schedules with natural day and night patterns. It’s time to let go of this outdated practice and create a less stressful and efficient lifestyle.
