SOUTH BEND, Ind.-- You should be preparing to turn your clocks back an hour because this Sunday at 2 a.m., we will gain an hour of sleep as we transition into daylight saving while preparing for a change that can bring mental and physical health issues.

As we approach daylight saving, you may feel your body grappling to adjust with the shift that may bring some health issues such as sleep deprivation, mood swings, and increased cravings.

Lindie Leary, director of Marshall County suggests that in order to alleviate these issues you can consider limiting your screen time, caffeine intake, or anything that will throw your sleep pattern off.

“I call it a happy light. They have them at drug stores. You get them off amazon. Those are very inexpensive. You can put them on your desk at work and at home. That's where I keep mine at home because it gets darker in the evenings." said Leary

The switch to daylight saving means we will experience more daylight in the evenings during spring and summer and more sunlight in the mornings during the fall.

Bowen Health mentions that data shows this seasonal change decreases the possibility for heart attacks by twenty seven percent.

Our bodies are used to that hour of light at night so every fall that we turn our clocks back it impacts our circadian rhythm which is our internal way that’s regulated by light to create our sleep and awake patterns.

The transition can be challenging for those who already experience mental health issues and Bowen Health is providing education and guidance to their patients to navigate these seasonal changes.

Bowen Health offers a flexible range of care that includes in-home, at their office or telehealth services for patients to address their mental and physical health despite transportation barriers.

15–20-minute adjustments each day alongside exercise will help you adjust to morning light exposure and help reset your internal clock.

To take advantage of the resources and guidance Gowen Health offers you can visit their website.