Mental health and wellbeing have become pressing issues across all industries, but perhaps nowhere more so than in the transport sector. Drivers spend long hours on the road, often in isolation, facing stressors such as tight schedules, traffic and separation from family.
This combination of factors means drivers are at high risk for developing mental health problems like depression, anxiety and fatigue. Unfortunately, these same issues can also seriously impair one’s ability to drive safely and react appropriately on the road.
With drivers away from the office for long stretches, mental distress may go unnoticed. For haulage companies and long distance lorry drivers in particular, the long periods away from home only heighten feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Common warning signs of distress in drivers
The open road can be a lonely place, and the demanding life of a professional driver can take a toll on mental wellbeing. While mental health issues may not always be outwardly apparent, there are often subtle signs that a driver is struggling psychologically and emotionally. Looking out for these warning signs is key for managers seeking to identify drivers who may be suffering from depression, stress, or other problems.
Sudden changes in usual mood or behaviour can be red flags. Irritability, anger, sadness or isolation from co-workers could also indicate psychological distress. Lacking energy and motivation, or no longer taking pride in one’s work can be causes for concern too. Research has shown that people with depression may even inadvertently suppress positive emotions, believing that they don’t deserve to be happy, as a defence mechanism against potential disappointment.
On the road, lapses in focus or concentration are problematic. Distracted driving, near-miss incidents and minor accidents could suggest poor mental health. Drivers need to remain vigilant and avoid complacency behind the wheel.
Those exhibiting reckless driving behaviour or taking unnecessary risks may be acting out or have a concerning disregard for safety, indicating deeper issues. Calling in sick frequently may also signal mental health problems, much like appearing exhausted, complaining of insufficient sleep, and heavy reliance on caffeine or energy drinks to stay alert. All of these could indicate chronic fatigue.
Being attentive to these signs can allow companies to intervene early and connect drivers to needed support and treatment.
Drivers at highest risk
While all commercial drivers face mental stressors, certain groups are at an even higher risk of developing mental health problems on the job. Understanding these vulnerable populations is important for targeting prevention efforts.
Long-haul lorry drivers top the list. The nature of their work keeps them isolated on the road for days or weeks, separated from family and friends. Lengthy periods away from home can contribute to profound loneliness and depression. Additionally, living out of a lorry cab also disrupts healthy sleep routines, ultimately compounding fatigue.
Shift workers are another group prone to mental strain. Irregular schedules make it difficult to get proper rest and maintain stable circadian rhythms and social connections. The constant adjustments can wear on mental wellbeing over time.
Younger or rookie drivers may also lack the experience to handle unforeseen irritants on the road. Without coping skills, new challenges can quickly become overwhelming. Similarly, drivers with pre-existing mental illness are more susceptible to relapse triggered by work pressures.
While risk factors like these provide clues, it’s important not to make assumptions. Employers should regularly check in with all drivers and be prepared to support any who appear distressed. Proactive outreach and training can empower drivers to seek help when needed, preventing the exacerbation of issues.
Steps for employers
While monitoring and safeguarding driver mental health presents challenges, there are steps transportation companies can take to fulfil their duty of care and keep employees safe. Firstly, businesses need to provide mental health and suicide prevention training for all managers. This will assist them to recognise warning signs and have compassion for what drivers experience. Employee assistance programmes or counselling services that drivers can access confidentially when needed, even on the road, will also help to support staff.
It’s vital that leaders set regular check-ins with drivers to ask about their wellbeing and watch for signs of fatigue, distress, or changes in behaviour. As part of this, reviewing policies around mental health disclosures will ensure drivers feel safe sharing issues without job repercussions.
Fostering a supportive, non-judgmental company culture where drivers feel comfortable seeking help will create an open dialogue around this issue. Taking a proactive approach centred on open communication and compassion for driver challenges can prevent future mental health crises.
Improving driver resilience
While employers play a key role, there are also steps drivers can take themselves to boost mental resilience, improve wellbeing and mitigate the stress of life on the road.
Practising good self-care by eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly and developing healthy sleep habits provides a strong foundation. Connecting with other drivers, family and friends for social support and making time to unwind and do enjoyable activities can also prevent isolation and burnout.
Drivers should aim to be self-aware and monitor their stress levels and mental health needs proactively. This allows them to request time off or seek help when feeling overwhelmed before problems escalate. Seeking professional mental health support when needed is also important to prevent or treat conditions like depression, anxiety and PTSD which can develop after traumatic experiences on the road.
Mental health has a profound impact on driver safety, yet addressing the psychological challenges faced by professional drivers remains an often-overlooked area. Left unchecked conditions of stress and fatigue can impair judgement, reaction times and focus behind the wheel. However, early intervention can prevent mental distress from escalating into a crisis.
Employers have a crucial duty to regularly monitor driver wellbeing, train managers, provide accessible counselling, promote open communication, and foster a compassionate work culture. With supportive policies, stigma around seeking help can be reduced.
Author: Annie Button, Freelance Journalist
