Optimising health for shift workers

For some people shift work is a blessing – but for others it’s a curse.

Benefits include flexibility, which may help with childcare arrangements and possible financial benefits with penalty rates and loadings.

Shift work is necessary practice across many industries and is an integral part of the rail, transport and energy sectors. However, it can negatively impact many areas of a worker’s life and health – both mental and physical.

At rt health, we look after the Australians who keep Australia moving. We understand what each job entails and are able to help with advice on the best health insurance to suit you.

Dr Trent Watson, Principal Consultant at Ethos Health conducts webinars about shift work, and has this to say:

“Shift work can affect all areas of a worker’s life. Physiologically, psychologically and socially.”

Broken down this means:

Physiologically – physical health that may be adversely affected by broken sleep patterns and insomnia; poor diet and a lack of nutrition; alcohol and drug abuse – including smoking; lack of exercise; and not enough rest breaks.

Psychologically – mental health can really suffer due to the stress caused by working shifts. This may lead to depression and anxiety, and a lessened ability to cope with life’s challenges.

Socially – relationships with friends, family and partners may be negatively impacted by inability to attend family gatherings and other leisure activities. Intimate relationships may be affected by lack of quality time with a partner.

Dr Watson points out that as shift work can take quite a toll on a worker’s health, due to fatigue, ill[1]health, depression, anxiety, or all of these, there can be a tendency to use unhealthy “coping” methods such as alcohol and drugs, cigarette smoking, or excessive caffeine – via coffee or caffeine tablets. These may seem like a short term “fix”, but in the long run they will do you a lot more harm than good.

Here are some tips to help you overcome the negative effects of working shifts

• Exercise regularly – walking is great exercise whatever your age or fitness level, with most smartphones having a built-in pedometer. Even 500 steps a day is a great start.

• Eat well – regular meals and healthy snacks will keep you energised for longer.

• Maintain a healthy weight – if you have trouble keeping weight off, you can use your Extras cover to see a dietician.

• Quit smoking – the Department of Health has some great tips on breaking this dangerous habit. (Remember, you’re able to claim benefits for over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy on your Extras Cover. Give us a call to see how we can help).

• Cut down on alcohol – try drinking light beer or diluting mixed drinks with soft drink. If you find you can’t stop after one or two drinks, you might need to talk to your GP or seek help via support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

• Try to get a good amount of sleep. Read more about how to get enough sleep if you’re a shift worker.