Is winter time harmful to your health?

Winter time (back to standard time, usually at the end of October) is not in itself harmful to health, but the biannual clock change (summer and winter time) can have temporary effects on the biological rhythm and well-being of some people.

In the fall, the clock is set back one hour for winter time. In the spring, the clock goes forward one hour for summer time. Winter time is essentially "real time" (standard time) that better reflects the natural day-night rhythm.

The clock change temporarily disrupts your circadian rhythm (your internal biological clock). For some people, this can lead to poorer sleep or difficulty falling asleep, reduced concentration, irritability or fatigue, and an increase in traffic and workplace accidents (especially after the spring change).

These effects are usually short-lived (a few days to a week), but some people, especially sensitive sleepers, children, and the elderly, may experience longer-term effects.

Winter time itself is not harmful; it's actually the time that better suits our bodies. What is most stressful is the change twice a year.

Source: https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.10898

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2025-10-25 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2026