Work schedules and biological rhythms linked to health risks

Recent studies have highlighted how different aspects of work schedules and biological rhythms impact employee health and stability.

A Finnish population study involving 2,266 working adults found that ‘night owls’—individuals with an evening chronotype—report higher levels of work-life conflict, poorer recovery after work, and increased mental health issues compared to morning types. The research, published in Sleep Health, noted that evening types experienced more work-related thoughts during personal time and reported higher levels of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression.

Separately, research involving over 61,000 U.S. workers examined the impact of volatile weekly work hours. The study, published in SSM — Population Health, found that fluctuating schedules have adverse health effects that manifest differently by gender. Men experiencing high fluctuations were more likely to report worsening health while remaining employed, whereas women were more likely to reduce their hours or leave the workforce entirely due to health-related reasons.