Daylight saving time (DST) in the United States will come to an end on Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 2 AM local time. On this date, clocks across most states will roll back one hour, meaning both sunrise and sunset will start occurring one hour earlier compared to the previous day before the time change takes effect.
This annual change from DST to standard time happens in order to make better and more efficient use of daylight hours during the fall and winter months. It aims to conserve energy by aligning daylight hours more closely with waking hours.
Where is DST Observed in the Continental United States?
Daylight saving time is observed in nearly all US states with the exception of Hawaii, Arizona, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. For the majority of states, the clocks will shift back one hour at 2 AM local time on November 5th this year.
Other major countries worldwide that also observe some form of DST during summer months include Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and countries across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand among others. However, there is some ongoing debate on whether daylight saving time actually helps conserve energy as intended or whether the biannual clock changes have unintended disruptive consequences.
Potential Disruptions Caused by the DST Change
The clock changes involved with daylight saving time have been shown to temporarily disrupt sleep schedules and routines for some people. The fall DST transition means sunrise and sunset will happen earlier by one hour, which can throw off circadian rhythms and make it more challenging to wake up earlier in darkened mornings.
The spring DST transition, on the other hand, shifts sunrise and sunset later, making evenings brighter longer. These changes two times a year can potentially impact productivity and increase risks for accidents or injuries in the days immediately after the time changes. However, any disruptions are usually short-term as people adjust within a week or two.
Tips and Suggestions for Coping with the DST Transition
Here are some tips that may help you adjust your schedule and body clock when daylight saving time ends in the fall:
- Try going to bed and waking up one hour earlier than normal on the Saturday night before the time change occurs. This will ease the transition.
- Get exposure to bright light in the mornings, like taking a morning walk in the sunlight, to help reset your circadian rhythms.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeinated drinks close to bedtime as these can disrupt sleep.
- Develop a relaxing pre-sleep routine, like taking a bath or reading before bed, to wind down your mind and body for rest.
- Take short naps during the day if needed to help make up for any sleep deficit.
- Be extra cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery as you adjust to the new daylight hours.
If you have any ongoing concerns about how the biannual DST changes impact your health, be sure to consult your doctor or a sleep specialist for individualized guidance. With some advance preparation and schedule adjustments, the DST transition back to standard time can go smoothly.
