Psychological Impact of Time Zone Shifts on India’s IT Workforce in Non-IST

Abstract

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, yet its prioritisation in India remains limited. Traditional Indian lifestyles are largely structured around family-centric routines aligned with the 9-to-5 workday. The expansion of multinational corporations (MNCs) and global outsourcing has disrupted this rhythm, requiring employees to work night shifts, early morning schedules, and irregular hours to serve international clients. This qualitative study explores the psychological and social implications of non-standard work schedules for Indian employees. Semi-structured interviews with ten participants working in different MNCs revealed recurrent themes of sleep disruption, fatigue, social isolation, and limited organisational support. Participants reported coping strategies such as meditation, strict routines, and peer support, though these provided only partial relief. Findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive mental health services, organisational interventions, and policy reforms that recognise the unique challenges of time-zone misalignment. The study highlights the importance of integrating routine mental health assessments and workplace wellness programs tailored for shift workers.