Impact of Time Zone Change on Sleep Patterns and Mental Health in children. Сase Study Kazakhstan

Abstract

The recent policy to standardize Kazakhstan into a single time zone has significant implications for adolescent sleep patterns and mental health. This study employed a comprehensive approach using surveys, actigraphy, and psychological assessments to measure the impact. Prior to the time zone change, adolescents averaged 8.5 hours of sleep per night. Post-change, the average decreased to 7 hours, accompanied by an increased sleep onset latency of 15 minutes. Mental health assessments revealed a 20% increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Actigraphy data confirmed disruptions in sleep efficiency and increased night-time awakenings. These results point to a profound shift in circadian rhythms affecting adolescent well-being. This study emphasizes the need for public health interventions to address these unintended consequences and suggests further research to monitor long-term impacts on adolescent development and mental health stability.