Sleep

The military works around the clock, which requires some service members to work nights and weekends. Whether you are working long hours while deployed or standing duty overnight, shift work can help provide critical mission coverage.

Staying alert and focused while on the job is vital, especially when you work outside the traditional 9-to-5 day.  However, working “odd-shifts” can get in the way of getting a good night’s sleep. In this article, learn how shift work impacts your sleep health and find tips to improve your sleep quality when you need to work non-traditional hours.

Did you stay up too late watching television again? Drink one too many alcoholic drinks during a night out with friends?  While these events might seem harmless, they can become an issue if they start to happen daily or regularly. Alcohol use not only comes with its own health risks, but also negatively affects your sleep quality and the amount you sleep. Excessive drinking and sleeplessness can also have long-term effects on your personal relationships, job performance, and physical and mental health.

Reaching out for care for your psychological health is an important, positive step in your military career. When seeking a role that requires a national security clearance, you will be instructed to fill out the Standard Form 86 (SF86), “Questionnaire for National Security Positions.” [PDF 7.6MB] The federal government uses information from this form to conduct background checks and evaluate individuals who are:

The demands of military life often get in the way of a full night’s sleep. Service members should get seven to eight hours of sleep per night, but most get less. On deployment, service members average just six and a half hours per 24-hour period. This can be a threat to mission readiness.

Sleep is important in life, just like air, food and water. It allows your body to heal, boosts your immune system and improves learning and memory. With healthy sleep habits, you are more likely to perform your best, whether you are at home, deployed or away for training.

Try these eight tips to help you improve your sleep when working non-traditional hours.