Emotional Dysregulation in Shift Workers

Shift work continues to increase in frequency in industrial society and accounts for more than 20% of workers in modern society. Previous studies have reported that shift work is a representative environmental factor that disrupts circadian rhythm and is associated with various physical and mental problems, including sleep problems. In particular, problems with circadian rhythm are closely related to difficulties in emotional regulation that cause mood disorders. In this review, we reviewed previous studies on emotion dysregulation in shift workers and examined past studies on the neuroscience basis for these problems. If neurobiological research yields results on shift workers’ vulnerability to emotional and sleep problems, it would be possible to suggest ways to prevent the adverse mental effects of shift work.