Mental Health Campaign Launches in El Paso Trucking Industry

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A new initiative called “No Load is Too Heavy to Share” was introduced on Wednesday, October 29, to highlight the significance of mental health in the trucking sector.

The campaign was announced by Emergence Health Network (EHN), the Paso del Norte Community Foundation, and several local trucking companies at a morning event.

EHN pointed out that long-haul truck drivers face mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress, often resulting from feelings of isolation, tight schedules, and lack of sleep.

EHN’s CEO Kristi Daugherty emphasized the emotional toll on truck drivers, who spend long periods away from their families.

“They often feel very lonely and helpless, especially when far from home during emergencies. We want them to know they can reach out for support by calling 988, which is available 24/7,” Daugherty stated.

Daugherty also noted a growing suicide rate among long-haul truckers and expressed the urgency to address the issue in El Paso.

Noreen Jaramillo, EHN’s communications director, highlighted the importance of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline as a free and confidential resource accessible to anyone in need, especially truck drivers across the country.

Lupe Gonzalez, who leads a commercial driving training program at Western Tech, shared his personal insights from his experience in trucking, emphasizing the many challenges drivers face on the road. He encouraged fellow drivers to communicate their struggles and seek help.