On Sunday, Nov. 7, the official start of daylight savings time began,or to sum it up, the day of the year I dread the most. 

Although the seasons transitioning and the light outside getting darker may not impact everyone, it has always been a struggle for me. 

Growing up, it wasn’t as bad because we had recess time in elementary school to go out and enjoy the sun twice a day, but as I have grown older it has only become harder to go outside. 

Although De Soto High School releases us at 2:55 p.m., we essentially only have two hours to go out and embrace the sun. And if you are anything like the average high schooler, there is a good chance you don’t even have time to go outside. 

Whether it be work, sports or other aspects, most of the time many students and adults in general do not have very many opportunities to go outside throughout the day. 

So the real question is, what do you do if you can’t go outside? 

According to Healthline.com in an article called,  “What You Can Do to Help Children Adjust to Daylight Saving Time,” teens are already put at a big risk by not getting enough vitamin D this time of year. “Daylight saving time can have a negative impact on children and teens, especially if mental health disorders are present.” 

This now has teens falling into another rabbit hole. Without sufficient exposure to sunlight, teens can potentially see a decrease in their mood and motivation. If this isn’t considered or treated correctly, many may be vulnerable to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

With daylight savings rolling around, it is clear that there is a big harm for many who do not have the ability to get proper exposure to the sun and with the months only getting colder, it is important to know how to overcome this time of year. 

Going to bed at a consistent time is very important during this time of year. Many students will find themselves dragging throughout school days if they do not get enough sleep this time of year. On average, teens need eight to 10 hours of sleep a night to get through the day. 

In addition to getting enough sleep, having a set routine and schedule may also help. Although it’s not the best news in the entire world that it is only getting darker and colder outside, having a set routine may help people continue to have motivation. 

Doing activities that promote self care  this time of year also plays an important role. Whether it be exercising, watching an episode of your favorite TV show or getting dinner with friends, it is important to take care of yourself even more  this time of year. 

Staying off your phone may also help play a role. Less screen time gives people more motivation to get things done without being off task. Oftentimes, being on your phone for a long period of time does nothing but create more stress surrounding the things you need to do. 

As this time of year sneaks up on DHS students again, there are many things to consider this time of year. Taking care of yourself, sticking to a solid schedule and going to bed at a consistent time may help with the exhausted dread of daylight savings.