I feel left out of family life because I work nights and sleep during the day
DEAR DEIDRE: I WORK night shifts and weekends in a supermarket.
I have to sleep during the day and feel left out of family time.
I am 36. My lovely wife is supportive. She works too, from home at the moment, and takes care of our two boys aged nine and seven.
I get to spend very little quality time with any of them.
They send me texts and photos of what they are up to. I know they love me but I am miserable.
Am I depressed?
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DEIDRE SAYS: Working night shifts is out of sync with your natural circadian rhythm and that has a damaging effect physically and emotionally.
Talk to your GP who might back you up in asking your employer to change your shifts or at least vary them.
Acas advises on work-place issues (acas.org.uk, 0300 123 1100).
Plan your week ahead with your wife to prioritise time you can all spend together – maybe over family dinner.