Night shifts are making me depressed. Is this normal?

Night shift depression is a real and recognised condition. The lack of sunlight disrupts your serotonin and melatonin production, which directly affects mood. What you can do: 1. Get outside in daylight even briefly on your days off 2. Consider a SAD lamp (10,000 lux light therapy) — use it for 30 minutes when you wake up 3. Vitamin D supplements (many night workers are severely deficient) 4. Exercise, even if it is just a 20-minute walk 5. Talk to your GP — they can screen for depression and offer treatment 6. Ask your employer about rotating shifts rather than permanent nights You are not weak for struggling with this. The human body is not designed for permanent night work.

This is an important workplace health question. Based on the information above, we recommend speaking with your GP if you have health concerns and contacting HSE (0300 003 1647) if your employer is not meeting their legal obligations. Keep written records of all incidents and communications. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.