As clocks “fall back” and daylight fades earlier each evening, the end of Daylight Saving Time may seem like a welcome chance to gain an extra hour of sleep. But according to Dr. Brianna V. Garrison, assistant professor of social work, the time shift can have far-reaching effects on mental and emotional health—especially for older adults, caregivers, and teens.
In a recent Hartford Courant story, Garrison shared her expertise on how the seasonal change disrupts sleep schedules, reduces social interaction, and can heighten feelings of isolation.
“It’s a snowball effect,” Garrison told the Courant. “Sleep is so essential to other functions of the body. Any changes to our circadian rhythm put us at risk for physical and mental health complications.”
As daylight hours continue to shrink, Garrison urges people to be proactive and intentional about their well-being.
“Do it strategically, incrementally, and have a plan,” she said. “Take your internal pulse—how is it affecting you?”
Read the full article in the Hartford Courant: “End of daylight saving time can hurt our health. A CT expert tells us how to avoid that.” (Published October 31, 2025)
