Due to the COVID outbreak, NHS workers of all grades are being asked to work nights. The problem is that on average, night shift workers sleep for 2 hours less than the average adult.
Here's why:
Sleeping Against the Body Clock
The body has an in-built biological rhythm which keeps you alert during daylight hours. When you try and sleep during the day it takes longer to drift off and you’re less likely to have deep, uninterrupted sleep
Irregular Schedules
The body's hormones act as signals for sleep or wake according to a 24 hour cycle. The more often you switch your schedule, the harder it is for the body to anticipate.
Sleeping Out of Sync With People Around You
Staying asleep with the noises of daytime hustle and bustle around you can seem impossible. Even if you can find peace and quiet, family responsibilities and personal relationships often mean sleep gets pushed lower down the priority list.