Explain why jet lag affects each individual differently during a transatlantic trip?

Role of the internal biological clock

Inside you, there is a kind of internal clock called circadian rhythm, set to roughly 24 hours. This little clock regulates a whole bunch of things like your sleep, your natural wake-up time, your hunger, and even your body temperature. The thing is, it is very sensitive to daylight and constantly synchronizes to it. When you travel quickly west or east and cross several time zones, your disoriented biological clock takes several days to reset. During this time, you feel completely exhausted, irritable, or experience a sort of brain fog. But be careful: everyone has their own clock, not necessarily exactly 24 hours, which explains why some people cope better than others with the notorious jet lag.

Impact of individual sleep habits

Each person has their own rhythm when it comes to sleeping: some fall asleep easily as soon as they lie down, while others struggle for a long time before finding sleep. Those with a regular sleep schedule, who go to bed and wake up at the same times, generally feel a more pronounced jet lag during a transatlantic trip, as the sudden change greatly disturbs their internal clock accustomed to routine. In contrast, individuals with very flexible and irregular sleep patterns often adapt more quickly, as their bodies are already used to frequent disruptions. Night owls generally have an easier time managing a trip westward, while early risers prefer to travel east, where it will get dark earlier. In short, your nighttime habits, such as sleep regularity or flexibility, will largely determine how you will react to the sudden change in time.

Age and physical condition sensitivity

Age plays a significant role in how we experience jet lag. Older people often have a less flexible internal clock: their bodies take longer to adjust, leading to more pronounced fatigue and disorientation. Conversely, children and teenagers generally recover more quickly. Your health status also matters a lot: someone in good physical shape tends to manage jet lag better. On the other hand, chronic issues like heart problems or pre-existing sleep difficulties often amplify the symptoms felt after a long journey. In short, age and health make a real difference in how you cope with travel.

Variable psychological consequences of time change

The time change directly disrupts our brain and can cause stress or anxiety. Many experience a form of irritability or mood swings in the first few days, and some even have a temporary decrease in their concentration and somewhat foggy memory. This strange feeling of being a little disconnected from reality, of having a cloudy mind, is explained by the effect of the time shift on our internal clock. These effects really vary from person to person: some feel almost nothing, while others go through a temporary phase of sadness or mental fatigue. It’s not a coincidence that we feel strange, like we are "elsewhere," after crossing several time zones, because our brain needs a bit of time to recalibrate all its internal cues.

Personal methods for adapting to jet lag

Everyone has their own little technique to minimize the effects of jet lag. Some prefer to gradually adjust their bedtime a few days before leaving, in order to arrive already tuned to the new schedule. Others use natural light—exposing themselves to the sun upon arrival really helps reset the body clock quickly. Staying well-hydrated, avoiding alcohol during the flight, and staying physically active shortly after landing are also personal tips that work well. Those who are more accustomed to transatlantic travel swear by strategic power naps, while others rely more on melatonin tablets to resynchronize their sleep. Ultimately, it largely depends on individual preferences and bodies: the key is to test and listen to personal reactions to find what works best.