Sleep Health

Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Working nights or rotating shifts can put your schedule at odds with your body clock, leading to poor sleep and daytime fatigue. Here's what to know.

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What it is

Shift work sleep disorder is a circadian-rhythm sleep problem that affects people whose work hours overlap the body's natural sleep window. It can cause insomnia when trying to sleep and excessive sleepiness when awake.

Common symptoms

  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep during off-hours
  • Excessive sleepiness during shifts
  • Trouble concentrating and low energy
  • Irritability or mood changes

Coping strategies

Consistent sleep timing where possible, strategic light exposure, a dark and quiet daytime sleep environment, and careful caffeine timing can all help — see healthy sleep habits. If fatigue persists or you snore and wake unrefreshed, an underlying condition like sleep apnea may also be involved; consider home sleep testing. For persistent insomnia, behavioral sleep health care can help.

Keep Reading

Related Topics

Sleep Health Resource Center

Physician-reviewed sleep guides. →

Healthy Sleep Habits

Evidence-based sleep hygiene tips. →

Behavioral Sleep Health

Insomnia and anxiety that disrupt sleep. →

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

It's a circadian-rhythm sleep problem affecting people whose work hours overlap their natural sleep window, causing insomnia when trying to sleep and sleepiness when awake.
Yes. Strategies around sleep timing, light exposure, and environment can help, and a physician can address persistent symptoms or any underlying sleep disorder.
Consistent timing where possible, a dark and quiet daytime sleep space, strategic light exposure, and careful caffeine timing can help. Persistent problems are worth evaluating.

Physician-led sleep care across Georgia.

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