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Updated: Sep 19, 2025

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Collecting Sleep, Circadian, Fatigue, and Performance Data in Complex Operational Environments
Published on: August 8, 2019
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Shift Work, Sleep, Chronic Fatigue, and Mental Health Among Hotel Workers
Marie-Anne S Rosemberg1, Joseph Tu1, Julianne Armijo1
1University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
Western Journal of Nursing Research
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Shift work negatively impacts hotel workers' mental health and sleep, increasing fatigue and posttraumatic stress disorder risk. However, paid overtime may reduce depression and anxiety symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Shift work is prevalent in the hospitality sector, yet its health implications for US hotel employees are not well understood.
- This study investigates the effects of nonstandard work schedules on hotel workers' health and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of shift work on mental health, sleep quality, and chronic fatigue in hotel workers.
- To identify specific work schedule factors associated with adverse health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A survey was developed with a community advisory board and administered to 518 hotel workers aged 18+ in a Midwest state.
- Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, linear and logistic regression, and stepwise moderation.
Main Results:
- Workers on nonstandard schedules reported higher rates of chronic fatigue and screened positive for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Paid overtime was linked to lower depression and anxiety symptoms, though front desk staff experienced increased depression with more overtime.
- Job type significantly moderated the effects of overtime on mental health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the significant health challenges posed by shift work for hotel employees.
- Findings underscore the need for longitudinal research and targeted interventions to mitigate adverse health effects.
- Policy changes and tailored support are recommended to improve the well-being of shift-working hotel staff.
Keywords:
fatiguehospitalityhotel workerslow-wagemental healthnon-standard work arrangementsservice workersshiftworksleeptourismMore Related Videos
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