Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jan 10: Do you work odd shifts or have a sedentary job? If yes, you might want to rethink your work habits. According to a study led by psychologist Claire Smith from the University of South Florida, certain workplace practices could be the reason behind your insomnia and other sleep problems.

The research, which surveyed over 10,000 employees across a decade, highlights that sedentary work and non-standard work hours significantly impact sleep health. Published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, the study categorizes workers into three groups: good sleepers, catch-up sleepers, and insomnia-like sleepers.

Key findings of the study

• Workers in sedentary jobs, especially those involving prolonged computer usage, are 37% more likely to experience insomnia symptoms.
• Employees with non-traditional shifts, such as night shifts, are at a 66% higher risk of needing ‘catch-up sleep,’ characterized by napping or sleeping in on weekends.
• An estimated 80% of the modern workforce leads a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to long-term sleep issues.

Impact on sleep patterns
Sedentary workers are more likely to struggle with insomnia symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, interrupted sleep, and daytime fatigue. Those on irregular shifts often experience disrupted sleep cycles and require additional rest to compensate.

The study found that poor sleep health affects overall productivity, well-being, and long-term health. Alarmingly, 90% of insomnia-like sleepers reported persistent symptoms even after 10 years.

Recommendations for employers and employees
Dr Smith emphasized the need for workplace redesign to promote sleep health:

• Incorporate physical activity during the workday.
• Set clear boundaries for after-hours work.
• Monitor and address specific sleep risks associated with different work environments.

"Healthy sleep isn’t just about eight hours. It’s about falling asleep easily, staying asleep, and maintaining a consistent schedule. Companies need to prioritize sleep health for the benefit of their workforce," Smith said.

The study underscores the importance of addressing workplace habits that jeopardize sleep, highlighting that proactive changes could improve employee well-being and productivity.