How to Survive a Graveyard Shift

Although you may not prefer working when most everyone else is sleeping, you can survive a graveyard shift if you learn some basic coping skills, as well as maintain a positive attitude.

Staying Alert on the Job

*On your breaks, try to get some needed exercise. If possible, do pushups, walk around your building or go up and down some stairs. Just do something to avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time, which can make you want to fall asleep on the job. On the other hand, try not to stand for an extended amount of time (if your job permits you to sit down, occasionally.)

*Drink green tea. Unlike coffee, green tea gives you energy. I first learned about the value of green tea from an over 60-year-old realtor who had more energy than I did and I was almost ten years younger than she was.

*Listen to music. If you're able to listen to music, bring along a portable radio when you feel yourself getting tired. Better yet, dance on the job (if no one else minds.)

Get more sleep during the day. Of course, you'll need to get more sleep during daylight hours to stay awake at night on the job. Here are a few tips as to how to improve your daylight sleep...

How to Get More Sleep during the Day

*Use Valerian root. Rather than resort to sleeping pills, which are addictive try natural alternatives, such as a Valerian root. A natural sleep inducer, Valerian root is a mild sedative that doesn't make you drowsy and isn't addictive like even mild sleeping pills.

*Wear a mask. If you have trouble sleeping in daylight, then wear a mask to create your own darkness.

*Use a fan. If you're like me, you can't get to sleep at all unless you have a monotone humming noise such as that a fan running. Daytime sleeping is even more challenging, as you have to drown out noises from not only your own household, but from outside your bedroom window. Try using a fan (on highest speed) to override any distracting noise. And, even it's in the dead of winter, you can still turn it away from you so you won't get cold.

*Use earplugs. If you're able to wear earplugs, they're great for tuning out daytime noises.

*Don't watch TV when you get home from work. Be careful about watching TV to fall asleep, as it's a stimulant, rather than a sleep inducer. My dear late mother, who had trouble falling asleep, spent most of her day watching TV, but then wondered why she couldn't sleep at night.

If nothing works for you, then perhaps you should either ask for a day shift or find another job. After all, a job that hurts your health isn't a