There is no doubt that there is a lot of pressure when truck drivers are on the road. The pressure to meet tight deadlines, stay alert and stay safe on the road. From the outside, it may look like it is an easy job that allows a driver to have freedom on the road while making money but it is not always the case. Truck drivers need a break, it is good for their mental health.

Mental health is a major concern for trucker drivers that is not always talked about enough. Long hours alone on the road, without a lot of physical movement or conversation can take a toll on a driver’s mental health. Burnout, which is described as energy depletion or exhaustion with increased feelings of negativism or loneliness and reduced professional efficacy, has a higher chance of affecting drivers and often goes unnoticed or is ignored. There are a number of steps that can be taken to avoid burnout, including making sure drivers get home on a regular basis. Another important step, is for the driver to pay attention to their thoughts and feelings as well as the company checking in with drivers regularly to see if they are managing on the road.

Everyday drivers are dealing with issues beyond their control such as road construction, weather, the unpredictability of other drivers on the road and lack of sleep due to long days. There is a lot of stress on the road and with lack of sleep it is harder to deal with stress in a healthy way. When drivers are on the road they should consider taking actions that they can control to support their mental and physical well-being:

• Create a driving schedule that includes short breaks in order to get fresh air and physical movement
• Plan ahead with snacks/meals that will fuel your body and mind and help to support your mental and physical health
• Avoid using drugs and alcohol to deal with stress
• Use technology to connect with family and/or mental health professionals

With all the stress truck driving brings, it is important to get a break. A real break, not just the hours that are required for a reset that are often spent in the truck. That is not a real break. Plan your vacation days far in advance so that you, your family and your company are prepared for it. It will give you something to look forward to while you are on the road. Studies show that at least a 5-day break is critical to supporting mental health, increasing productivity and avoiding burnout.

RESOURCES
https://www.smart-trucking.com/truckers-need-vacations/
https://www.pay4freight.com/truckers-need-vacations-for-good-mental-health/
https://www.fleetowner.com/operations/drivers/article/21182888/how-to-approach-mental-health-in-trucking

If you are looking at a career in the trucking industry as truck driver then we have a few tips for you to get started. First off, you will need to be trained so that you are qualified to start. Take your time when choosing your school, be sure to do your research that you are confident in your future. If you are having trouble deciding what school to attend, you could try contacting a local trucking company to find out which school they recommend or if they have a school that they work with to obtain new hires. Once you have settled on which training school to complete, be sure to take it seriously and study so that you can learn as much as you can while you are there. The harder you study and the more serious you take it, the easier it will be once you get on the road.

The next step is to find a company that is ready to hire you. If you did not attend a school that had a placement program then it will be up to you to find a company hiring. There are many ways to do this, you could start by searching online and see what opportunities are there as well talk to other truck drivers you may know.

Once you are on the road there is no doubt the first year will be the toughest. The more experience that you gain the more confidence you will gain as well. Along with that, your salary will reflect your experience so the more driving time you can get the more earning potential you will have. One main goal in your first year (and the years beyond) should be to make sure you have no accidents. It will be incredibly difficult to continue with your career if this happens.

It will take adjusting for you and your family once you are on the road. Your relationships may suffer in the beginning but it is important to stay in touch with them and work past the difficulties. You will need the support once you are on the road more often.

Be sure to give truck driving a good chance before you decide whether it is for you. It can be a respectable career that can give you a decent salary. Be sure not to expect to get rich quick in this career but know that it can present great opportunity.

RESOURCES
https://www.transportdriver.ca/our-go-to-tips-for-beginner-truck-drivers