Supporting truck drivers' mental health

The elevated anxiety and depression levels among drivers highlight the urgent need for mental health support and attention

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources for those facing these challenges as well as their loved ones. This month focuses on creating community tools, offering education, and supporting research to address this serious issue. While suicide is a major concern across all sectors, it is particularly relevant in the trucking industry, where the high levels of anxiety and depression among drivers, driven by the daily demands of the job, underscore the urgent need for attention and support in this area.

A survey on mental health disorders in trucking reveals that nearly 28% of truck drivers feel lonely on the road, 27% suffer from depression, 21% experience chronic sleep disorders, 14.5% face anxiety, and 13% encounter other emotional difficulties. These figures highlight that mental health issues are widespread among drivers.

Factors contributing to the prevalence of these disorders among truck drivers include irregular sleep schedules, isolation, prolonged separation from family and friends, inadequate exercise, an unhealthy diet, and exposure to tragic or traumatic events on the road.

Caring for truck drivers’ mental health

Although drivers operate under difficult conditions, there are multiple ways to care for mental health and provide relief for those suffering from related conditions. It is essential for drivers to prioritize self-care and mental well-being. Similarly, companies have a responsibility to provide necessary resources and implement prevention programs.

Here are 6 essential pillars for mental health care in the trucking industry:

1. Social connections

Support networks among truck drivers to share experiences and offer emotional support, as well as using technology (video calls, messages) to stay in touch with family and friends.

2. Healthy routines and habits

Maintaining consistent sleep schedules, even when traveling different routes, is crucial. Additionally, performing simple exercises that can be done in the truck and adopting strategies for incorporating daily physical activity are key. Lastly, following a balanced diet contributes to both physical health and mental well-being.

3. Access to mental health resources

It is crucial for companies to provide accessible information on how to access counseling and therapy services, both online and at rest areas. Truck drivers should have contact information for 24/7 help lines and suicide prevention services, as well as tools provided by carriers and companies.

4. Education and training

Psychological first aid training programs enable truck drivers to identify and support colleagues in crisis, contributing to overall improved health. Providing information on the signs of mental health issues, how to seek help, and offering ongoing prevention programs, courses, and educational materials to raise awareness among workers is important.

5. Healthy work environment

For workers to thrive, a healthy work environment is essential. Despite the challenges in the trucking industry, having adequate rest breaks, supportive coworkers, and empathetic supervisors helps to create a sense of peace among drivers.

6. Recreational activities and self-care

Finally, maintaining a balance between work, recreational activities, and self-care is crucial. Truck drivers are encouraged to use their free time for recreational activities such as reading, listening to music, or audiobooks. It is also important to establish a self-care routine that includes practicing self-compassion and emotional care. Setting and working towards personal goals helps foster a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential support 24/7 in the United States. Mental health is a priority.