Time change 2025: When we gain one extra hour of sleep
This year’s switch from daylight saving time to standard time will take place on the night of Saturday, October 25, to Sunday, October 26. At 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, clocks will be turned back one hour to 3:00 a.m., giving us one extra hour of sleep.
While many people welcome the additional rest, experts warn that the time change — whether in spring or autumn — can affect health in various ways. Studies show that the benefits in terms of energy savings are limited, while the impact on physical and mental health can be significant.
Main effects include:
Disruption of circadian rhythm: Disturbances in the body’s internal clock may cause fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty sleeping.
Increased cardiovascular risk: Heart attacks and strokes are more common in the days following the time change due to sleep disruption, higher blood pressure, and inflammation.
Psychological impact: Higher stress, anxiety, and even depressive symptoms, especially in autumn when daylight hours are shorter.
Rise in accidents and injuries: More traffic and workplace accidents are reported as drowsiness reduces alertness and concentration.
Reduced productivity and cognitive performance: Lower focus and efficiency at work, along with greater difficulty in decision-making.
How to ease the impact:
Adjust bedtime gradually a few days before the change.
Spend more time in natural light to help regulate the biological clock.
Avoid caffeine and screen exposure before sleep.
Exercise regularly to improve sleep quality and mood.
Though often seen as a minor shift, the time change can be challenging for people sensitive to sleep disruption or those with pre-existing health conditions.
History of the time change:
The idea dates back to the 18th century, when Benjamin Franklin suggested waking earlier to save candles.
It was first officially introduced in 1916 by Germany and its allies during World War I to conserve fuel. Other countries, including the UK and the USA, soon followed.
During World War II, it was reintroduced to save energy.
In the post-war period, different countries adopted or abandoned the practice inconsistently, until it became more systematically applied.
Why it was implemented:
Energy savings through reduced artificial lighting.
Increased productivity with more daylight hours for work and activities.
Improved road safety due to more daylight in the evening.
Economic and leisure benefits, with more time for outdoor activities and tourism.
Today:
Many countries still observe the time change, though others have abolished it. In 2019, the European Union voted to end the practice, but disagreements among member states have delayed its full implementation.
