The Decibel Why a sleep doctor says we should never change our clocks again
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Oct 31, 2025 Joseph De Koninck, a psychology professor and sleep researcher at the University of Ottawa, shares insights on the impacts of daylight saving time on our sleep and circadian rhythms. He explains how the transition disrupts our bodies, leading to reduced sleep and increased health risks. De Koninck argues for year-round standard time as a solution, emphasizing the need for morning light and the dangers of evening exposure. He also offers practical tips for managing sleep during the time changes, making the case for better sleep health.
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Sleep Is Central To Health
- Sleep is the common denominator for physical and psychological functioning and its deprivation harms judgment and immunity.
- Modern factors like artificial light, night work and devices erode sleep and raise disease risks.
Spring Shift Causes Double Harm
- The spring daylight-saving shift both cuts one hour of sleep and desynchronizes our biological clock from morning light.
- That double effect reduces sleep across summer and worsens appetite, mood and risks for vulnerable people.
Light Keeps Kids Up Late
- Joseph De Koninck described his daughter resisting bedtime because it's still light outside in summer.
- He used the example to show how evening light delays children's sleep and affects family schedules.