What is Shift Work Sleep Disorder? May 19, 2025 Last week we celebrated nurses on International Nurses Day — but today, we’re shining a light on all shift workers and the sleep struggles they face. Whether you're a truck driver, emergency responder, or hospitality worker, non-traditional hours can come at a serious cost to your health — especially your sleep. If you're constantly battling fatigue, insomnia, or daytime drowsiness, you could be dealing with Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD). SWSD is a circadian rhythm sleep disorder that occurs when your work hours clash with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.1 This misalignment can make it hard to fall asleep during the day and stay alert during your shift — especially if you're working through the night or switching between different shift patterns.2 What Does SWSD Feel Like? Some of the most common symptoms include: • Insomnia – difficulty falling or staying asleep during the day3 • Excessive sleepiness – dozing off at work or on the commute home2 • Irritability, brain fog, and low energy – affecting your focus and mood2 • Reduced work performance – or even safety risks on the job4 In fact, research suggests that around 1 in 10 shift workers are likely affected by SWSD.4 For night shift workers especially, your body is producing melatonin (the sleep hormone) when you need to be alert — and when it’s finally time to rest, daylight and other environmental cues tell your body to stay awake.1 Why It’s More Than Just Feeling Tired Long-term sleep disruption isn’t something to ignore. If left untreated, SWSD can increase your risk of: Heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes2 Anxiety and burnout2 Workplace accidents and drowsy driving2 It can also impact your immune system and hormone levels— making it harder to cope both on and off the clock.1 What Can You Do? There are ways to manage SWSD: Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on your days off2 Use blackout curtains or eye masks to block light during sleep2 Avoid screens, caffeine, and alcohol before bed2 Use light therapy at the right times to reset your body clock2 Take short naps to improve alertness before or during your shift2 When to Seek Help If your symptoms have lasted more than 3 months or interfere with daily life, it's time to seek professional help.2,3 A sleep specialist can help confirm whether you have SWSD and recommend effective strategies and treatments. Shift work is essential — but so is your health. If you’re struggling with sleep, talk to your doctor today. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&C’s apply. Citations 1. Pacheco, Danielle Shift Work Disorder: Overview and Complications.”, Sleep Foundation, 15 Apr. 2022, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/shift-work-disorder. 2. Admin Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.” RSDC, 29 Jan. 2025, rsdc.au/shift-work-sleep-disorder, Accessed 16 May 2025. 3. Cleveland Clinic. "Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD) | Cleveland Clinic.” Cleveland Clinic, 2017, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12146-shift-work-sleep-disorder 4. Health Professionals Information.” Sleep.org.au, 2024, sleep.org.au/Public/Public/Resource-Centre/HP-info.aspx.
