In recent years, research has shown that young adults who work irregular shifts may be at higher risk for developing sleep problems and physical and mental health issues later in life. A study conducted by a researcher at New York University used data from over 7,300 participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth-1979 to explore the association between employment patterns and various health outcomes at age 50.
The results of the study were clear: participants who worked night shifts or irregular hours in their 20s slept less and had worse quality of sleep compared to those who worked a standard 9 a.m.-5 p.m. schedule. By the time these workers reached age 50, they were more likely to report feelings of depression. Additionally, those with volatile work schedules, such as working evening or night hours, or having daily hours that constantly changed, were more likely to report poor health in middle age.
One interesting finding was that Black participants were more likely to have these types of schedules. Study author Wen-Jui Han explained in a press release that work is now considered a vulnerability to healthy living due to the increasing instability in work arrangements. The study was published online in the journal PLOS One, providing valuable insights into the impact of work on our health and well-being.
