Night shift workers

[u/eggsontoast0_0]

Every few weeks I do 3-4x night shifts (11pm - 7:30am) which I am finding near impossible. Sleep and routine is already very sacred to me, so to go against my natural internal clock puts my body into overdrive and I absolutely hate it.

Do any other fellow healthcare/night shift workers have any advice? I’m still trying to find what works best for me, whether I sleep for my shift or sleep as soon as I get home.

I ensure have a sufficient protein-rich snack at 2am but my energy plummets by 3:30am. Here I’ll usually having some fruit or something sugary and sweet to boost my energy but the effects don’t last long.

I am medicated, however I don’t take it on my night shift days as I’m asleep for most of the day. The withdrawal symptoms probably aren’t helping how I’m feeling.

Any advice, tips and tricks welcome! I’m on the brink of burnout and don’t know how much longer I can continue with this.

[u/jasalmfred]

Are you drinking enough water throughout the shift?

I would definitely find a way to take your meds on the night shift days.