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Discussion 2.1: Sleep Disorders
by Amy Park - Sunday, 8 September 2024, 7:13 PM
Number of replies: 0
Yes, I do think that I am sleep deprived because I work graveyard shift. I've been working night shift for about seven years. I work Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 6pm to 630am. Than I get the next four days off. I usually need at least two days to recover from working graveyard. Than I go back to day schedule during my days off than switch back to night schedule the night before I have to go to work the next day. I believe the right amount of sleep can vary from person to person. Some may need 7 to 8 hours everyday. Others may need 4 to 5 hours depending on the nature of their job and their living situations. For me, during my work days I usually get four to five hours of sleep but during my days off, I go back to sleep between 8 to 10 hours.

Some of the causes why I am sleep deprived is due to stress, work schedule, and substances such as caffeine. My work can get very stressful at times because where I work is a data driven company. It’s a very high demanding company. Working full time and now going back to school will be the main factor that I will be sleep deprived. I tend to drink a lot of caffeine when I wake up and during work as well. Another factor that I may be sleep deprived.

I manage the situation by making sure I make up for my sleep during my days off. I also tend to go for a walk periodically to go enjoy the sun and enjoy the outdoors during my days off. I use my four days to recover from sleep and go exercise because taking care of yourself is very important especially when your work schedule is like mine.

The main consequences of sleep deprivation include mental health and physical health as well. Having lack of sleep can lead to increase in anxiety and depression. So in order to ensure that I get enough sleep, I go exercise and avoid using any type of electronic device before I go to sleep and reduce on caffeine intake during my days off.

Answer 1

Hi Amy,

Thank you for sharing your experiences with sleep deprivation, especially as someone who has had to manage a demanding night shift schedule. It’s impressive that you recognize how crucial it is to prioritize sleep and make adjustments to mitigate its effects on your health.

Your insight into the variability of sleep needs among individuals is particularly noteworthy. It's true that balancing work, school, and personal life can be incredibly challenging, especially in a high-pressure job like yours. It sounds like you're doing well by leveraging your days off to recover and focus on your well-being with activities like walking and exercising.

I also appreciate your approach to managing caffeine and screen time. Those are practical strategies that many people can benefit from. Creating a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation can really help improve sleep quality over time.

Have you considered any additional relaxation techniques to help wind down after your shifts, like meditation or yoga? They might provide extra support in combating the stress and anxiety that come with your schedule.

Take care of yourself, and keep prioritizing that much-needed recovery time!

Best,
[Your Name]