Working the Night Shift Can Affect Sleep Patterns

Do you work the night shift? If so, it could be disrupting your sleep habits and patterns. But, don’t worry – help is available! For the purposes of this post, we’ll define shift work as anything performed outside the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.

The underlying problem with shift work is that our bodies are designed to sleep at night. Shift workers “sleeping at the wrong time” often have less hours of sleep at a lower quality. This can lead to serious health problems, accidents on the job, and traffic accidents. Sleepy drivers take higher risks and have slower reaction time. If you work the night shift, be aware of these judgment errors that often occur:
· Overestimated performance
· Slower reaction time
· Decreased peripheral vision
· Poor multitasking
· Decreased vigilance
· Decline in motor dexterity

Here are some hygiene tips to help you regulate your sleep:
· Nap before coming to work, or immediately after work prior to driving home.
· Expose yourself to bright light prior to starting work.
· Limit your exposure to light upon returning home in the morning.
· Continue this schedule on your nights “off” if possible.
· Develop a relaxing sleep ritual before bed.
· Sleep in a cool, dark, quiet environment.
· Protect your sleep time.
· Get adequate sleep prior to your shift.

If you still find you have problems staying awake/focusing during your shift and/or falling asleep when you get home, talk to your physician. Sleep disorders are treatable and controllable.