Addressing Mental Health in Trucking
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Truck drivers and the trucking industry leaders are recognizing and tackling the distinct challenges posed by their profession, including feelings of loneliness, the effects of a sedentary lifestyle, and prolonged separation from family and friends.
Importance of Mental Health Awareness
At the recent annual conference of the National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS), Lauren Ramnath Daharry, a licensed mental health counselor and certified yoga instructor, emphasized the necessity of addressing these mental health needs.
“Drivers are prone to work-related health issues, particularly mental health disorders,” Daharry noted. “Many may not realize that high occupational stress, limited healthcare access, and social isolation are contributing factors. Imagine being stuck in a cab all day—it’s isolating with no one to talk to. Prioritizing mental health assessments, promotion, and treatment is essential to creating a better working environment for drivers and enhancing safety on our roads, starting with education.”
Crisis Response Knowledge
Daharry provided an analogy regarding first aid training: “While we are trained to handle physical injuries, what about mental health crises? How do we recognize someone who might be suicidal? That’s a difficult topic, yet it’s very real. Many aren’t vocal about their struggles, and we need to learn how to identify and assist those in distress before it escalates.”
Mental Health First Aid Training
“Mental Health First Aid equips you to help colleagues facing mental health or substance abuse challenges,” Daharry explained. “Truck drivers and educators are under immense pressure, making it easy to overlook mental health needs. Studies indicate that 28% of truckers experience loneliness, while 27% report depression and many others face anxiety and sleep issues. When a driver’s mind isn’t focused on the road, the risks increase significantly.”
Benefits of Telehealth
Daharry highlighted advancements in Telehealth that have opened pathways for mental healthcare, although many companies have yet to utilize these services effectively. Missed workdays due to mental distress can cost employers over $5,700 per affected employee, leading to increased turnover and reduced productivity.
Investing in Mental Wellbeing
“Addressing mental distress can be costly but investing in mental health resources is a smart move,” said Daharry. “Reducing absenteeism and presenteeism is essential. A workplace engaged in mental health discussions fosters a culture where employees feel safe to take necessary mental health days, potentially preventing severe accidents and long-term consequences for themselves and others.”
Proactive Mental Health Management
Daharry concluded by noting that Mental Health First Aid, originating from Australia, focuses on various factors such as childhood trauma and PTSD. By proactively training both truck drivers and management on identifying and addressing mental health challenges, the industry can work towards safer roads. Recognizing a mental health crisis as a legitimate issue, like a physical ailment, is vital for fostering a supportive environment.
“Empathy can’t be taught; it must be inherent,” she added. “People should learn to listen and reflect empathetically, or partner with those who naturally possess these skills. Understanding oneself is a crucial part of this journey.”
To explore more about Mental Health First Aid, visit www.craftycounseling.com.
