Poor or insufficient sleep itself makes these problems likelier to occur. Strategies for Shift Workers, a 12-page brochure based on the latest research, explains how our biological clock works, details the physical and mental effects of shift work, and presents an abundance of tips ranging from dietary to behavioral, light therapy to advice on medications. Ten to 20 percent of nightshift workers report falling asleep regularly at work. It's simply a matter of getting too little sleep. Half of Americans report insomnia, difficulty falling or staying asleep or waking earlier than desired, according to a 1995 NSF Gallup survey.
Insomnia is a common complaint among shift workers.
Alcohol can also interfere with sleep, as can alerting activities before bedtime, exercising within three hours of hitting the sack, noise, light, heat or cold. The NSF advises shift workers to be wary of melatonin, a product not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Its use remains experimental and cannot be advised until there is more information about its safety, effectiveness, dosing and side effects. There are sleep-promoting drugs regulated by the FDA that promote sleep. Research on their safety and effectiveness is reassuring.