Over 30% of Canadians are shift workers. National Sleep Health defines shift work as irregular work hours, regular being 8-4 or 9-5. International Labour Organization defines it as ” a method of organization of working time in which workers succeed one another at the workplace so that the establishment can operate longer than the hours of work of individual workers”. In our 24/7 society, shift work is a reality for many. Early morning shifts, evening shifts, night shifts, rotating shifts are associated with an increased propensity towards disrupted sleep. Night shift and rotating shift workers have an increased risk of acquiring circadian rhythms disorder, mood disorders, metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, cognitive dysfunction and cancer. Shift work is an act of slow violence against our bodies and can have serious consequences on our physical and mental well-being. 

The Sleep and Society Podcast examines this topic in detail and does deep dives into what it takes to keep somewhat healthy when going against one’s own biological rhythms.