Workers with atypical schedules, including those in law enforcement, healthcare, mining, and firefighting, make up between 25% and 30% of the population. These schedules, often rotating or night shifts, disrupt sleep and alertness, causing numerous health issues such as insomnia, drowsiness, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiovascular issues. Some may even be diagnosed with a "shift work sleep disorder."
The mismatch between these schedules and natural biological rhythms leads to a misalignment of physiological activities, making it challenging for the body to adapt. Julie Carrier, a psychology professor at the University of Montreal, conducts research with her colleague Annie Vallières, revealing that behavioral therapy can improve daytime sleep and reduce anxiety, drowsiness, and depression.
The therapy includes debunking sleep myths, managing insomnia, sleep restriction, and prescribing specific windows for day and night sleep. They plan to democratize access through a mobile app for remote monitoring, reducing costs and improving accessibility.
Atypical schedules pose societal challenges, increasing the risk of accidents, absenteeism, and presenteeism. A dialogue among experts in various fields is essential to minimize these negative impacts and find solutions.
This content has been updated on 7 May 2024 at 19 h 42 min.
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