January 19, 2026 at 8:55 pm

Stressed Night Shift Worker Takes Time Off For Her Mental Health, But Now She May Need To Take Unpaid Leave Because She Can’t Get Day Shifts

by Ashley Ashbee

Woman upset with her head in her hand

Pexels/Reddit

Making a job compatible with your health and needs in general is important, but there can be consequences.

See why this worker is in a sticky spot that may be counter-productive to her health.

Boss making it difficult to move on to day shifts.

I have worked night shifts for the last 5 years for the same company. 5 months ago I asked to go on days as nights were starting to make me feel sick (lack of sleep etc).

I was told that it will take a few months to move on to days as there are no positions available.

There were more problems to come.

Then I became very sick and took 2 months off work because of it.

Upon returning they have hired a few people on days. I have mentioned to my boss that I really need to move on to days.

He is now saying the company will not move me on to day shifts until an occupation therapist confirms that will make me feel better.

Things don’t look like promising.

The referral could take another month.

I’ve been told if I can’t work the shifts I am set I will have to take unpaid leave.

I’m in the UK.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this?

Here is what folks are saying.

Sometimes best to move on.

Screenshot 2025 12 23 at 1.44.15 AM Stressed Night Shift Worker Takes Time Off For Her Mental Health, But Now She May Need To Take Unpaid Leave Because She Cant Get Day Shifts

I’m sure it depends on what you are doing, too.

Screenshot 2025 12 23 at 1.44.28 AM Stressed Night Shift Worker Takes Time Off For Her Mental Health, But Now She May Need To Take Unpaid Leave Because She Cant Get Day Shifts

It’s a good impetus to do something new.

Screenshot 2025 12 23 at 1.44.51 AM Stressed Night Shift Worker Takes Time Off For Her Mental Health, But Now She May Need To Take Unpaid Leave Because She Cant Get Day Shifts

Lots of people need sunlight to feel happy and perform optimally.

Screenshot 2025 12 23 at 1.45.19 AM Stressed Night Shift Worker Takes Time Off For Her Mental Health, But Now She May Need To Take Unpaid Leave Because She Cant Get Day Shifts

I hope she does what is best for her health.

Thought that was satisfying? Check out what this employee did when their manager refused to pay for their time while they were traveling for business.

Ashley Ashbee | Contributing Writer, Workplace & Culture

Ashley Ashbee is a contributing writer for TwistedSifter specializing in workplace dynamics, employee advocacy, and professional culture. Drawing on her real-world experience as a software consultant, she brings a unique, insider perspective to navigating office conflicts, toxic management, and trending professional dilemmas.

Holding a degree in Professional Writing from York University, Ashley combines her formal editorial training with her corporate background to deliver highly engaging, empathetic narratives. She excels at breaking down complex workplace dramas and translating them into stories that truly empower and validate modern workers.

Based in St. Catharines, Ontario, Ashley balances her time between the tech and publishing worlds with her love for the outdoors. When she isn’t consulting or writing, she can usually be found exploring local walking trails or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn and Twitter/X.