Between hours on the road and stuck in traffic, inclement weather, and extended periods away from home, being a truck driver is a stressful job. According to one study, loneliness and depression each afflict over 25% of truckers. Because of this, we encourage you to take proactive steps to maintain mental wellness as your start your trucking career. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy on your routes.
3 Tips for Good Mental Health on the Road
1. Keep Yourself Entertained
Long hauls are an ideal time for listening to audiobooks, podcasts, and music, and they have the added benefit of keeping you entertained. On-the-go entertainment helps the hours pass more pleasantly and allows you to pursue hobbies while working. Phone calls home and with old friends can also brighten your day and help you connect with your loved ones. Just be sure to stay safe and focused on the road.
2. Prioritize Sleep
Good sleep promotes alertness, physical health, and good moods. Having routes at odd hours and imperfect sleeping conditions can make getting sound sleep difficult, but it’s worth it to go out of your way to sleep better. Equip your truck with everything you need for a good night’s sleep, including a sleep mask, a source of white noise, and a nice mattress or pad. It’s also good to stop at a hotel occasionally, if possible.
3. Take Time Off
If you’re accruing paid vacation and sick time, make sure to use them. When you’re feeling under the weather, taking a sick day helps you recover faster, gives you more time with family, and means you’ll be more alert and fresher on the next trip. Paid vacation time is a reward for the hard work truck drivers put in, and using it to take a trip with family or friends, visit a new place, or take a long weekend will bring you happiness, help you catch up on rest, and forge new memories that you’ll cherish.
Our CDL training program offers classes and instruction to prepare you for a successful and satisfying career as a truck driver. Call us at (330) 239-2229 to discuss enrollment.
- OH Reg. #2057
- ODPS License #1439-2369