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NHS Nurses Suffer Shift Work Disorder
6 Nov
Summary
- Three in four NHS staff meet shift work disorder criteria.
- Shift work is linked to increased depression and anxiety.
- Workforce shortages worsen the impact of shift work.
A recent study involving 440 staff across two NHS trusts has revealed that a significant majority of hospital workers are experiencing symptoms of shift work disorder. Researchers found that 71% of these staff met the criteria for the disorder, characterized by insomnia and excessive sleepiness, which impairs daily functioning.
This condition is strongly associated with mental health issues, with affected workers being four times more likely to suffer from depression and three times more likely to experience probable anxiety. The Royal College of Nursing emphasizes that these findings are concerning, noting that the demanding nature of shift work, compounded by severe workforce shortages and high patient demand, leaves nursing staff ill and struggling with their mental health.
Experts suggest that individuals in caring professions who undertake shift work should be screened for shift work disorder and provided with specialized support. Potential interventions include adapting work rotas, improving sleep hygiene education, and in some cases, prescribing sleep medication. The RCN calls for employers to implement safer rota designs and ensure adequate breaks and recovery time, alongside government investment to address staffing pressures and improve retention.
