Working during the night is unavoidable in some industries, such as hospitals and security firms. And so some of the workers have to work the night shift. It is not always easy to work the night shift, but it can be done with the right information and self-discipline. One of the biggest challenges shift workers face is sleep loss, which can result in health problems, as you know how important it is to get enough sleep. The following tips will help you organize and stay healthy as you continue your night shift duty.
1. Give yourself time to adjust
It will be good for you if you’ve just started to work the night shift to give yourself enough time to adapt. Your body is not used to your new routine, and it isn’t going to be easy for you initially. Don’t worry if you sleep a lot during your shift or not during the day. With time your body will adjust.
2. Change your environment
Trick your mind to act opposite by making changes at your workplace and in your bedroom. Have a bright light at your workplace to make it look like daylight, making you more productive and not feel sleepy. Have dark curtains in your bedroom to sleep even when the sun is so bright. You can alternatively invest in blackout shades and earplugs to block you from the outside noise while sleeping.
3. Stick to your routine
Changing your shift now and then will do you no good since it will make your body not adapt easily. E.g., if you work two days on sleeping disorder. So if you can decide, take a night shift, if not a day shift.
4. Do exercise
You should take 30 minutes to one-hour breaks during your shift. You can take a nap during this time only if it’s not going to affect anyone negatively. Alternatively, do a physical activity to keep yourself active during the remaining hours. In the morning, after work, exercise, shower, and eat a healthy breakfast before you go to bed.
5. Socialize and learn more
Take advantage of your free time, especially during your off days or exchange shifts. You may find that sometimes you’ve up to 36 hours away from your job. Don’t oversleep or stay idle; you can use that time to be with friends or family, and when they are busy on their shifts, you can go online and add your knowledge. E.g., you can do some Free Cna Practice tests.
Above all, getting the right support from the people close to you or your family will help you greatly. Let them understand your schedule, and you’ll have peace of mind even when you are sleeping, as they won’t come disturbing you.