Daylight savings time can change when you go to sleep which may be difficult for a women with ADHD because the symptoms may interfere with you. It can also In addition it can impair your circadian rhythms which are the behavioral and physical cues that assist us to regulate our walking, mental alertness during the day, sleeping and hunger. So, what can you as a women with ADHD to help you get through this?
Take A Nap– Yes you heard me right… if you feel sleepy after the daylight savings time, take a short nap in the afternoon not to close to bedtime which will assist your internal clock to adjust on its own in a few days.
Catch Some Rays– Once the daylight savings begins, go outside and catch some sunshine. The sunlight will assist your body’s internal clock which controls things such as when you sleep or wake… but don’t forget your hat and sunscreen.
Pace Yourself- I know this is easier said than done but try not to pack your schedule right after the time change. As I stated in the beginning of this blog the daylight savings time can impair your circadian rhythms which effects our behavioral and physical cues (our ADHD symptoms). Try to tackle big projects later in the week.
Relax Before You Go To Bed- Being stressed and overstimulation can make it difficult for women with ADHD to fall asleep. Instead of watching that intense television show try relaxing with a warm bath or curl up with a good book. In addition, worry produces a stress hormone called cortisol which makes you more alert…. If anxiety keeps you awake at night write in a journal or write out your schedule for the next day and include possible solutions to the challenges you may face.