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Shift workers often have schedules outside the traditional 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. range, including rotational shifts, fixed night shifts, and extended days. Data from the 2017–2018 American Time Use Survey indicates that 6% of U.S. workers have evening shifts, 4% work nights, and 2% have rotating schedules. Shift workers often experience sleep problems due to conflicting natural rhythms, leading to less and lower-quality sleep. Common issues include chronic insomnia, sleep disturbances, poor sleep quality, and shorter sleep duration.
Research shows that these sleep problems are linked to higher risks of mental health issues and burnout. Studies reveal that shift work has multiple effects on mental health, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, substance use, cognitive decline, and dissatisfaction with overall well-being.
For individuals engaged in shift work, several common issues and interventions can improve quality of life:
- Trouble falling asleep and feeling tired: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on days off, to minimize the impact on natural rhythms.
- Feeling isolated: Schedule social time with friends or family that suits both schedules.
- Feeling exhausted: Incorporate exercise into daily routines, even for a short duration, before or after work.
- Work-related fatigue: Address workplace stressors by discussing them with coworkers and employers.
- Ineffective sleep: Improve sleep environment with blackout shades and white noise before considering medication.
Workplaces can also support shift workers’ mental health:
- Minimize night work.
- Provide adequate rest days, especially after night shifts.
- Customize mental health resources for shift workers, even outside regular hours.
- Rotate shifts clockwise.
- Maintain frequent check-ins with team members.
- Foster a work culture that prioritizes mental health.
- Educate employees about sleep and mental health and encourage medical consultations when needed.
Link to the original news (University of Kentucky) :
http://uknow.uky.edu/uk-healthcare/how-find-balance-shift-work-sleep-and-mental-health
