Working non-traditional hours could have long-term effects on your health, according to a recent study conducted by researchers in the field.
The research was primarily published in the Plos One journal. It involved over 7,000 subjects, tracked over three decades, starting from the age of 22 to 50. The aim of the study was to explore the impact of irregular work patterns, especially those involving sleep, on the physical and mental health of individuals.
The research defined “standard” work hours as those starting at 6 a.m. or later and ending by 6 p.m. In contrast, irregular or volatile work schedules were classified as those commencing at 2 p.m. or later and ending by midnight.
The study showed that people who worked non-traditional hours faced a significantly higher likelihood of poor health, even when compared to those who were unemployed. These individuals were likely to experience fewer hours of sleep per day, lower sleep quality, diminished physical and mental functions, and a higher probability of reporting poor health and depressive symptoms at age 50 than those with more stable work schedules, Han told the Daily Mail.
Note: The study’s findings underscore the importance of maintaining regular work hours for long-term physical and mental health.
The study also highlighted that socioeconomics played a significant role in work patterns. In this regard, researchers used factors like gender, race, and education level to determine the social status of employees who worked during the day and night.
Unfortunately, minority groups, who were disproportionately negatively affected, often confronted the stress of unconventional work hours that led to health issues.
Fact: The study revealed that a higher proportion of African Americans with jobs requiring nonstandard schedules compounded the prevalence of sleep issues among people of color.
Health problems resulting from severe sleep deprivation and low sleep quality due to non-standard work schedules have been labeled as Shift Work Sleep Disorder by the researchers.
Young adults who maintained a consistent work schedule but transitioned into more unsustainable work hours in their 30s showed worrying results. These included health scares related to cardiovascular disease and anxiety.
Wen-Jui Han, a professor at New York University who led the study, emphasized that volatile work patterns could act as a chronic stressor in our lives. Employees working odd hours had a higher likelihood of experiencing poor health.
Given that many people spend most of their waking hours at work, the choice of jobs that allow individuals to work hours that accommodate their schedule and prioritize health becomes paramount. This is because, in the long run, unconventional shifts could lead to significant health risks.
Pro Tip: Prioritize jobs that offer standard work hours to minimize the potential long-term health risks associated with irregular work schedules.
The results of this study have been shared widely in the scientific community and beyond. It is hoped that organizations will take note of these findings and adjust work schedules to promote the health and well-being of their employees.
