The UK clock change may affect your mental health (Image: Getty)
This year, the clocks moved forward on March 29. But when do they go back? According to gov.uk, the clocks go back on October 25.
It explains: “In the UK, the clocks go forward 1 hour at 1am on the last Sunday in March, and back 1 hour at 2am on the last Sunday in October.
“The period when the clocks are 1 hour ahead is called British Summer Time (BST). There’s more daylight in the evenings and less in the mornings (sometimes called Daylight Saving Time). When the clocks go back, the UK is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).”
Since the clocks go back in just a few months’ time, we’ll gain an hour in bed. Yet according to Change Mental Health, there’s a misconception that the additional hour compensates for lost sleep.
It explains: “When we ‘fall back’ and gain an extra hour of sleep, some believe it compensates for the sleep debt. However, your body clock isn’t immediately adjusted. This disruption caused by changing the clocks can lead to sleep disturbances and increased sleepiness in the days.”
Given this, it’s vital that you get support if you’re finding things difficult, as it may increase your vulnerability to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and feelings of isolation.
SAD symptoms can deteriorate during the clock change, as reduced daylight hours and diminished sun exposure may result in lower spirits, decreased energy levels, and heightened feelings of sadness and exhaustion.
The change can also interfere with sleep patterns and the body’s natural circadian rhythm, potentially raising the risk of depression, low mood, and suicidal thoughts.
Not only that, but it could increase the feeling os being alone.
It explains: “Clock changes and earlier sunsets can have an isolating effect on individuals. With limited daylight hours, outdoor activities and social interactions may be limited. You might be more inclined to stay indoors, leading to a sense of isolation and social withdrawal.”
Do this
To help tackle these issues, it says that it is good to maintain a consistent routine. It suggests: “Stick to a regular daily schedule, especially for sleep and meal times. Consistency can help regulate your body’s internal clock and reduce the disruption caused by clock changes.”
As well as staying active to help boost your mood and energy levels, it says that daylight is key, even if you sit outside. “Spend time outdoors during daylight hours.
“Exposure to natural light can help regulate your circadian rhythm and improve mood. Even a short walk during the day can make a difference,” it suggests.
Other suggestions include staying connected with friends and family to help “combat feelings of loneliness and improve your mood.” And if you’re feeling “stressed or anxious due to the clock change, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, grounding or mindfulness. These practices can help you manage your emotions and reduce the impact on your mental health.”
Mental health support
For support with your mental health, you can seek help here via Hub of Hope. It lists organisations and services across the UK to help you discover help in your area. For local support tailored to your needs, it recommends searching by location and selecting at least one support need.
The NHS says that if you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E now. If you need urgent help for your mental health, get help from NHS 111 online or call 111. “Your mental health is as important as your physical health. You will not be wasting anyone’s time.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
