Time Changes Should End, Says Psychologist
The biannual time change is a relic of the past that has no place in modern society. It disrupts our sleep, productivity, and overall well-being.
Psychologist Dr. Michael Breus, author of "The Power of When," argues that time changes are not based on any scientific evidence and that they are actually harmful to our health.
"There is no doubt that time changes disrupt our sleep," says Dr. Breus. "When we spring forward, we lose an hour of sleep. And when we fall back, we gain an hour of sleep. But this disruption to our sleep can have a number of negative consequences, including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and obesity."
Time changes can also disrupt our productivity. When we spring forward, we are more likely to be late for work or school. And when we fall back, we are more likely to be tired and less productive.
In addition to the effects on our sleep and productivity, time changes can also affect our overall well-being. They can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Breus believes that the time has come to end time changes. He proposes that we adopt a permanent standard time that is based on the sun's position. This would eliminate the need for time changes and the negative consequences that come with them.
A number of countries have already adopted a permanent standard time. For example, China has used a single time zone since 1949. And most of Europe has used a single time zone since the 1970s.
Dr. Breus believes that it is time for the United States to follow their lead and adopt a permanent standard time. He says that doing so would improve our sleep, productivity, and overall well-being.