Do we in Sweden and the Nordic countries benefit more from the time change?
Well, the main benefit for us is that we get more light in the evening. But in the summer it doesn't matter that much, because then it's so bright anyway.
Are more people dying due to the time change?
No. There is an old classic Swedish study that showed that heart attacks increased by a few percent on the Monday and Tuesday after. But a more recent large study showed that was not true. There are studies that showed a few more traffic accidents on those days, but overall the risks are small.
Is the change to summer time more harmful than winter time?
Yes, you could say that, as you get less sleep. Sleeping an extra hour is not a risk. For most people, it's a no-brainer. Most people make this adjustment every weekend when they sleep longer and then need to get up a little earlier on Monday. This particular weekend is going to be a little extra hard.
Can you sleep through the difference?
Yes. Not everyone, but almost everyone catches up quickly. Our sleep is so dynamic and biologically strong that most people catch up in one night. Those with a late rhythm will have even more trouble adjusting to society than they already have.
Is everyone affected equally by the time change?
No, there's a huge difference. If you're outdoors a lot, you adjust right away; there are great studies that show that everyone who goes camping becomes a morning person. Those who are outdoors less, who have longer rhythms and tend to be evening people, will have a bit more trouble.
