Time Change Worsens Insomnia, North Bay Expert Reports
Changing the clocks twice a year significantly impacts individuals with insomnia, according to Ken Porter, a resident of North Bay, Ontario, who struggles with the disorder. He is associated with the Mood Disorders Society of Canada and highlights that even a small shift like gaining an extra hour can disrupt his entire week. Porter emphasizes that the one-hour difference influences his productivity and overall well-being.
Impact of Time Change on Insomnia
Porter has suffered from insomnia linked to anxiety for as long as he can remember. He finds that the time changes aggravate his sleep difficulties, similar to experiencing jet lag. To combat insomnia, Porter advocates for good sleep hygiene. This includes:
- Maintaining a consistent bedtime.
- Avoiding cellphone use before sleep.
However, Porter notes that the biannual clock adjustments disrupt these healthy routines.
Legislative Responses to Time Changes
The issue of changing clocks has sparked ongoing debate. In 2020, Ontario passed a bill aimed at establishing permanent daylight saving time. However, this legislation hinges on New York and Quebec adopting similar measures and is not yet in effect.
Recent discussions have intensified, particularly as Ottawa Liberal MP Marie-France Lalonde plans to introduce a private member’s bill to evaluate whether Canada should eliminate time changes entirely. Lalonde remarked that it’s time to reassess the need for shifting clocks and how it affects Canadians.
This coming Sunday, residents will adjust their clocks back by an hour at 2 a.m., transitioning back to standard time. This annual adjustment is likely to be a topic of conversation once again as Canadians reflect on its implications for their health, particularly for those battling insomnia.
