Why Men in the Restaurant Industry Struggle to Sleep
By Shironosov
One of the most common complaints I hear from restaurant professionals, especially men, is that they struggle to receive adequate sleep.
Many that I know use alcohol to unwind, leaving them feeling more restless as insomnia kicks in throughout the night.
Due to high levels of stress caused by working night shifts, the hormone cortisol can be elevated, making it even harder to fall asleep.
Add in some late-night eating, especially highly palatable foods rich in fat, sugar, salt, combined with alcohol, can lead to serious addiction over time.
Implementing good sleep hygiene can help establish a healthier routine and reduce the need to use alcohol as a sleep remedy.
“For optimal health, adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep, as recommended by the Sleep Research Society and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.”
Lack of proper sleep can lead to various health challenges:
Depletes B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc, essential for energy production and metabolism.
Can lead to burnout, low motivation, irritability, and even symptoms of anxiety or depression.
It affects organs such as the adrenal glands, which can produce too much or too little cortisol, and the cardiovascular system, causing strokes and heart attacks.
Alcohol and junk food both trigger the dopamine reward system, giving temporary pleasure but leading to increased cravings when the effect wears off.
Muscles do not recover properly, the brain fails to clear out fatigue, and both mood and focus begin to decline.
Working in the restaurant industry can be challenging, especially as a man who doesn’t feel supported or is surrounded by a network that leans heavily on alcohol as a way to cope.
Over time, that environment can normalize habits that slowly chip away at your energy, focus, and long-term health.
For many men, it can be uncomfortable to step out of familiar circumstances. Still, the reality is that discipline requires change, self-awareness and reflection on how alcohol is really affecting you when it comes to your daily routine and sleep.
If you are struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), consider working with a professional. Learn more at alcoholtreatment.niaaa.nih.gov.
Updated: August 2026 — This article has been expanded with new research and insights.
