When the Days Get Shorter, Pay Attention to How You Feel

This weekend, the clocks go back one hour. A lot of people look forward to getting that extra hour of sleep. But once the time changes, it will also start getting dark earlier.

For some people, that does not make much of a difference. For others, the shorter days can affect their energy, sleep, and mood.

You may notice that you feel tired earlier in the evening. You may want to sleep more, stay inside, or put things off because you do not feel like doing them. You may also feel a little down and not really understand why.

That does not automatically mean you have depression or seasonal affective disorder. Your body may simply be adjusting to the time change and having less daylight. Still, it is something worth paying attention to.

Sometimes, we are quick to call ourselves lazy when our energy changes. We may say we need to push harder or get ourselves together. But everything is not always about being lazy. Your body and mind may be responding to a change in your routine.

The important thing is to notice whether it passes or continues.

Try to keep your normal sleep schedule as much as possible. Going to bed and getting up around the same time can help your body adjust. If you can, get outside during the morning or around lunchtime. Even a short walk can give you some natural light and help you stay active.

It also helps to plan something you enjoy. When it starts getting dark early, it is easy to go home, shut the door, and stay inside. There is nothing wrong with resting, but try not to completely disconnect from people or stop doing everything you normally enjoy.

Pay attention if you start sleeping much more than usual, losing interest in things, avoiding people, craving certain foods, or feeling down most days. If those changes last longer than a couple of weeks or begin affecting your daily life, talk with your doctor or a mental health professional.

You do not have to wait until things get really bad. You can simply say, "I have noticed that my mood and energy have changed since the days started getting shorter." That is enough to begin the conversation.

The time change may only move the clock back one hour, but that one hour can still change how our days feel. Give yourself a little time to adjust, keep an eye on your mood, and do not ignore yourself if something feels different.

Resources

Mental Health America Screening: Free and confidential mental health screenings are available at screening.mhanational.org. A screening is not a diagnosis, but it may help you decide whether to speak with a professional.

NAMI HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text NAMI to 62640, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, for mental health information and support.