The Impact of Shift Work on Mental and Physical Health: Expert Advice
A study tracking over 175,000 British adults found that individuals who work rotating shift patterns, such as nurses, security guards, and police officers, are 22% more likely to be diagnosed with depression and 16% more likely to have anxiety compared to those on a standard day schedule. However, the study did not find an increased risk of depression among self-employed individuals or those routinely working night shifts, suggesting that night shift workers may have adjusted to the altered lifestyle, reducing the severe fatigue that contributes to mental health problems. Factors such as poor sleep, smoking, higher BMI, lower income, and living in a poor environment were identified as potential causes of mental health issues among shift workers.