Understanding chronic fatigue vs sleepiness is important. Chronic fatigue typically feels like constant physical or mental exhaustion. Excessive daytime sleepiness, on the other hand, involves an overwhelming urge to fall asleep — even during active tasks.
For shift workers, this difference matters. If you are fighting to stay awake during meetings, driving home after a night shift, or spending your days off catching up on sleep, your symptoms may stem from circadian misalignment rather than general fatigue.
Your body operates on a 24-hour internal clock known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates hormone release, alertness, digestion, and sleep. When you work nights or rotating shifts, your schedule forces your body to stay awake when it naturally wants to sleep — and sleep when it is biologically programmed to be alert. Over time, this misalignment can result in persistent excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty sleeping during daylight hours, irritability, mood changes, poor concentration, slowed reaction times, and an increased risk of workplace or driving accidents. This pattern of symptoms is known as Shift Work Disorder, and it is one of the most common causes of excessive sleepiness among healthcare workers, first responders, factory employees, hospitality staff, and others who work nontraditional hours.
You may be experiencing Shift Work Disorder if:
While other sleep disorders like sleep apnea or narcolepsy can cause similar symptoms, shift workers are uniquely vulnerable due to their schedule alone.
Shift Work Disorder doesn’t just affect your energy levels — it can have lasting effects on your overall health. Long-term circadian disruption has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and mood disorders, as well as decreased cognitive performance. When your body’s internal clock remains misaligned for extended periods, the strain can impact both physical and mental well-being. Excessive daytime sleepiness also raises immediate safety concerns, particularly for those driving or operating machinery after long shifts. Because of these short-term risks and long-term health implications, proper evaluation and treatment are essential.
Because millions of Americans work outside the traditional 9–5 schedule, researchers are actively studying better treatment options for Shift Work Disorder. Clinical trials are evaluating therapies designed to improve wakefulness during work hours while supporting restorative sleep during off-hours.
Research in this area focuses on regulating the sleep-wake cycle, improving alertness, and reducing the health risks associated with chronic circadian disruption. Many current treatment approaches for sleep disorders were made possible through clinical research participation.
By joining a clinical trial, eligible participants may gain access to investigational treatment options and study-related care while contributing to medical advancements that could benefit other shift workers nationwide.
If you work overnight or rotating shifts and constantly ask yourself, “Why am I always tired?” your schedule may be the real cause.
Elevate Clinical Research is currently enrolling participants in a clinical trial focused specifically on Shift Work Disorder. This study is evaluating potential treatment options designed to improve wakefulness and overall quality of life for individuals experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness related to shift work.
If your work schedule leaves you exhausted, you may qualify. Better sleep isn’t just about feeling rested — it’s about protecting your health, your safety, and your future.
Click the button below to see if you’re eligible for our Shift Work Disorder clinical trial!