how long does it take to get used to 3rd shift?

Question

Im starting a 3rd shift position and I am worried that I am going to end up tired and not to very good. Any idea how long it will take to get used to the change?

Answer 1

My wife did 3rd shift for a number of years. In the same way many have commented on the problems of getting adjusted to working overnight, my wife's other big issue was her day off, when she'd readjust her body clock in order to do weekend daytime activities, then readjust again when the workweek started.

She stopped doing 3rd shift about 9 mos ago and couldn't be happier. So I wish you well and hope you're not going to work 3rd shift for too long.

Answer 2

You have to be able to get a good regular sleep, at the very least. If you cannot guarantee a quiet dark room when you want to sleep, you may not adjust.
I never did, and I blame poor sleep for my inability to make it work. I actually had physical symptoms while I was working 3rd shift, like swollen legs and feet, that I did not have working in the day or afternoon.

Answer 3

3rd shift is tricky...You must go the whole night without sleeping and continue the routine even on your days off...I worked from 10-7am and went to bed as soon as i got home. I woke up between 3-5 and had the evenings to do errands and things....I tried to do it the other way by staying up till 2 in the afternoon and going to bed until 9:30pm and it was terrible. Good luck...Another suggestion is eat light lunches during the shift...AVOID CAFFEINE!!! It will really screw up your sleep cycle......Again good luck

Answer 4

Its different for everyone, my husband has worked 3rd shift for years...Make sure to get yourself a routine, such as when you get off work, watch tv for about an hour, unwind from your shift,and then go to sleep.....

Answer 5

If you are not a night person it might take some time. However your body will adjust. Try not to worry about it..