Please help with tips for surviving the night shift

I'm a recent grad and have started nights on a busy med-surg floor working 7pm-7am 3 days a week, at least 2 days in row. I really enjoy working nights and have no problem sleeping 7 hours during the day prior to my shift. I bought room darkening curtains, take a lunesta and sleep from like 9-4. The problem is it hits me the day after, my first 2 days off and even after sleeping a full night I feel like a zombie, grouchy and depressed. Prior to nursing I worked as a flight attendent and always did red-eyes so I know I can do it and like I said , I have no problems with the actual shift - it's the recovery. Changing shifts is not an option so I have got to figure something out. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Quote from jenw922I'm a recent grad and have started nights on a busy med-surg floor working 7pm-7am 3 days a week, at least 2 days in row. I really enjoy working nights and have no problem sleeping 7 hours during the day prior to my shift. I bought room darkening curtains, take a lunesta and sleep from like 9-4. The problem is it hits me the day after, my first 2 days off and even after sleeping a full night I feel like a zombie, grouchy and depressed. Prior to nursing I worked as a flight attendent and always did red-eyes so I know I can do it and like I said , I have no problems with the actual shift - it's the recovery. Changing shifts is not an option so I have got to figure something out. Any suggestions? Thanks!
This subject has been covered repeatedly in the last several months in the General Nursing Discussion forum. Suggest you either do a search or glance through previous posts, reading ones with headings that appear pertinent.
Thanks! Yes I am often on this site and have read many threads and posts on this issue and agree that is a common topic. I think it is likely a fairly "hot issue" as it pertains to such a large number of people. I look forward to reading many more posts and new threads on the issue to hopefully find new tips and information.