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!

Are you not able to sleep without the lunesta? Do you get any exercise outside of work like, going to the gym, or walking/jogging outside? How much sugar are you consuming?

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.