In the early 1990’s, two studies, the Fort McMurray Community Health Needs Assessment and the Alberta Heart Health Survey, found that individuals who work a shiftwork schedule have a higher incidence of cardiac and other health problems than the general population. In researching the problem, Keyano College found that those whose hours of work fall outside of the traditional 8:00 am to 5:00 pm workday experience health risks, personal and family problems such as: higher levels of sleep problems and fatigue; twice the likelihood of cardiovascular disease; eight times the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders; increased consumption of unhealthy foods, caffeine and cigarettes; increased levels of drug and alcohol abuse; and higher rates of divorce and spousal abuse.

To study the problem and investigate potential solutions, a community initiative partnering the Fort McMurray and District Health Unit, Keyano College, along with private and public sector partners was formed. The Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation and Alberta Heart Health provided the funding for the project.

In 1995, Shifting to Wellness was asked to provide consultation, resources and lifestyle training for private sector shiftworkers. Shifting to Wellness as it exists today was developed to amalgamate the research that had been collected and to fulfill these requests.

In 1999 the Shifting to Wellness resources were completely updated with new research. The layout was reformatted to better link all resources. Lastly, a “new look” was added.

2005 saw Shifting to Wellness undergo a complete restructure. Find further information on this under our ‘2005 Restructure’ section.