Daylight saving time may leave you feeling unbalanced: Here's why
Springing into longer days has its own set of highs and lows. Here are some expert tips on how to keep a healthy balance for your mental health when the clocks change
In the spring we move our clocks one hour ahead for daylight saving, which can impact our moods for the better... or worse.
The good news is that longer days can have a positive effect on our mental health, with the increased sunlight helping to boost our serotonin—the happiness chemical.
The red light that scatters across the sky from the sun setting can also help boost melatonin in our brains—the sleepiness chemical.
SEE ALSO: It's almost time to 'spring forward': How to adjust to the time change
In the right amounts, these chemicals work together to keep our bodies aligned.
On the other hand, for some, too much sunlight comes with its own downfalls. Too much serotonin can negatively affect our bodies and minds, making us feel more agitated and worked up.
These negative impacts are caused by the time change disrupting our circadian rhythms—our internal clocks that help to regulate sleep, focus, mood, appetite, and immune function.
If you're feeling more irritable in the spring or summer, be sure to keep these tips in mind:
Have a routine
Exercise in the morning
Invest in blackout curtains
Watch the video above for more details and expert information from therapist Mandy Morris.
Thumbnail image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay.