Battling Sleep Woes as Clocks Fall Back: Tips to Keep Your Energy Up and Sleep On Track!

Oh, the trials of the time change! Just as we’re getting cosy with our routines, the clocks decide to tumble back an hour, tossing our sleep into a spin.

Now, if you’re one of the UK’s shift workers, you know exactly what I mean! Thanks to Pro Plus, we’re seeing just how this annual twist affects folks trying to juggle work and sleep.

Here’s the scoop: out of 1,000 shift workers surveyed, nearly 40% report their sleep schedules getting totally scrambled post-clock change.

And that’s not the half of it! About a third say their motivation and mood at work take a nosedive, all thanks to this bi-annual time tango.

And, of course, with winter on our doorstep, the days are getting shorter, which half of these hard-working folks say leads to an energy dip.

So, what’s the fix? Well, nearly 40% are reaching for energy drinks like they’re going out of style — with 14% drinking four or more to keep the lights on (talk about a buzz and crash!).

Now, we’ve got NHS A&E doctor and TikTok sensation Dr. Emeka Okorocha offering a bit of sanity to this seasonal sleep chaos.

According to him, “Pro Plus’s research highlights issues around fatigue, which can affect both personal health and workplace safety. We must recognise this and offer support and resources to help people manage their well-being.

By making mindful adjustments, we can improve our well-being and performance.” A bit of wisdom that could save us all!

Shift Workers’ Survival Guide for the Clock Change

Let’s get into Dr. Okorocha’s no-nonsense tips to help anyone facing the post-time-change blues:

1. Lock in Your Sleep Routine
“Sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity,” says Dr. Okorocha. He suggests creating a sleep-friendly setup in your bedroom, sticking to a schedule even on days off, and giving yourself a screen break before bed to keep the sleep-wrecking blue light at bay.

2. Ditch the Vending Machine for Real Fuel
That quick snack might be tempting when you’re on the go, but reaching for prepped, nutritious meals can be a game-changer, offering lasting energy instead of a quick fix that leaves you flat.

3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Fatigue can be a sneaky side effect of dehydration, and it’s easy to overlook during a busy shift. Keep a water bottle handy, and give yourself regular reminders to sip throughout the day.

4. Choose Smarter Energy Boosts
Energy drinks might seem like an easy solution, but the inevitable crash is rough. Dr. Okorocha recommends Pro Plus Fizz, a caffeine supplement with B vitamins, as a more stable pick-me-up that avoids the sugar rollercoaster.

5. Move to Boost Your Mood
Even a quick walk or light workout can work wonders for your mood and energy levels. Don’t underestimate the power of a bit of fresh air or a short jog around the block.

6. Stay Connected to Avoid Isolation
Shift work can feel pretty lonely, so take time to connect with friends and family whenever possible. It might be the mental lift you need to get through those long, late hours.

As the clock shift looms, Dr. Okorocha’s tips offer a gentle reminder: it’s about working with your body, not against it. So here’s to battling those seasonal sleep woes with balance and a bit of sparkle!