Working late destroys your health: how to avoid it

Long-term health may be compromised by non-standard work schedules, such as night work or shift work, highlights a recent New York University study. The survey, conducted over thirty years, found an increased risk of sleep disturbances, depression and various health problems over the age of fifty among those who worked outside the traditional hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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The impact of long working hours on health

Research by Wen-Jui Han of New York University sheds alarming light on the link between precarious work hours and long-term health problems. His analysis, based on the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, conducted over a thirty-year period, indicates noticeable rates of sleep disturbances, depressive symptoms, and various health problems among those who worked hours other than the traditional 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. .

According to the survey, while most participants worked standard hours throughout their careers, nearly 17% switched to flexible work schedules, working nights or late in the day. About 12% chose more flexible work arrangements after starting their careers with a traditional schedule. Thus, it appeared that this sample experienced more health problems after reaching age fifty compared to those who maintained a traditional work schedule.

Increased risks for certain categories

Interestingly, the study found that the harmful effects of irregular schedules were especially pronounced among those who had a stable schedule in their 20s and then switched to a variable schedule in their 30s. Moreover, some populations appear to be more affected by these risks than others.

Women who worked nontraditional hours were more likely to have sleep problems than their male counterparts. What’s even more alarming is that Black women especially suffer the harmful effects of working odd hours, despite their level of education.

Necessary preventive measures

The health risks associated with non-standard work schedules also vary depending on the nature of the schedule. For example, working at night will have a greater impact on sleep quality than working later in the day or on weekends.

Observing these results highlights the urgency of taking proactive measures within companies to mitigate the risks associated with these unconventional schedules.

Thus, atypical work schedules bring their share of long-term health problems. Should we then reconsider the organizational structure of work, or should we invest more in prevention and wellness programs at work?