No abstract

BACKGROUND: Many risk factors related to alteration of circadian rhythms impact the health of night-shift hospital workers (NSHW), resulting in mental and somatic disorders. NSHW working conditions – including a stressful work environment – and related sleep disorders can foster addictive behaviors in this population. To study how the environment affects night shift health workers (NSHW) and whether psychoactive substances (PS) are a self-medication response.METHODS: Qualitative study to verify the plausibility of the self-medication theory applied to addictive behaviors. Semi-structured interviews (N=18 NSHW) and thematic analysis, following consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research recommendations. RESULTS: Both night shift and the stressing and stigmatizing environment affected NSHW mental and physical health. Alcohol after work and smoking were used as a “social” break but also as a means to reduce stress. Alteration of circadian cycles led NSHW to use of non-prescribed sleeping pills. PS appeared as a self-medication act, modulated by social and professional environments, source of stress, discrimination, isolation and social norms. CONCLUSION: Anti-stigma interventions in healthcare setting and screening of mental/somatic disorders in NSHW will help reduce harmful self-medication behaviors and improve hospital care in the COVID era.

No abstract