Workplace conditions have a documented effect on employee health including sleep. Occupational stress and burnout are more frequent among penitentiary personnel than the general population.

The aim of the current study was to examine the phenomenon of insomnia and its relationship with occupational burnout in a sample of Polish prison officers.

The study was carried out on a sample of Polish prison officers using the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE), and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI).

showed that the Polish prison officers exhibited early symptoms of insomnia. Sleep disorders had a significant role in developing occupational burnout. Coping strategies such as help-seeking and engagement were revealed to have a mediating role in the relationship between insomnia and occupational burnout dimensions. The coping strategy of help-seeking was the only predictor of insomnia.

The results can constitute a significant argument for health promotion campaigns highlighting sleep hygiene directed at penitentiary personnel. A research model created for the purposes of future studies would allow for measuring the frequency of health behaviors, including the general category of preventive behaviors. The study warrants continuation.

No significant relationships.