Do Shifts Make You Feel in the Dark?
By Tom Herrin
As times have changed in an age of progressive everything, the hours people work have become increasingly varied. At one time, almost everyone worked from morning until late afternoon with little change. As the economy has grown more complex, it has been a matter of survival for many to work hours that would otherwise be considered abnormal. For some, it may be preferred, but for many others, it can be a difficult thing to balance. Working when others are sleeping can be a drain in many areas. One of those is relationships. Another is avoiding the effects of the schedule on the body.
How Well Do You Sleep?
According to studies, many who work shifts, which may include any kind of hours other than the somewhat traditional nine to five, must deal with several issues. In some cases, these may be potentially hazardous. For some, they are never able to sleep as they should. If most of the rest of the world is up and around, it may be a challenge to be attempting to sleep. This may contribute to greater fatigue which, in turn, may increase the likelihood of accidents.
Where Is the Rest of the Family?
There may be that feeling of being left out. When most family members are out doing something together, sleeping due to working a shift may tend to make a person feel somewhat left out. If they attempt to make up for the lost time, they may well end up only being more tired and frustrated. This cycle has the potential of ending up affecting the general mental and emotional state of the individual. It can also lead to poor eating habits as the day sleeper may end up eating at odd times as well. Many times, this does not include good, healthy meals.
Make Ways to Fit In
The almost opposite of being left out is fitting in. In the case of those of us who have those shifts to deal with, it may take a commitment on the part of every member of the family to help keep them on track and involved. Scheduling a time in which they can be part of an activity with the family can be important. Even if this is brief, it can work. It may keep everyone in a better relationship, as well as active. You may need to predetermine just what you can do and how. When you are working during everyone else's bedtime, it can be tough. With a little planning, you can likely keep yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally on track.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Diego, Calif.