In Daytona Beach, Florida, the trucking industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health. Truck drivers and company leaders are taking action to tackle challenges like isolation, sedentary lifestyles, and extended periods away from family. During the National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS) annual conference, mental health counselor Lauren Ramnath Daharry emphasized the urgent need to address these issues.
Daharry pointed out that truck drivers are susceptible to various mental health conditions due to high occupational stress, limited access to healthcare, and a lack of social support. “Sitting in a cab all day isolates drivers from social interactions, making them vulnerable to mental health issues,” she explained.
The statistics are alarming. A 2012 study indicated that 28% of truckers report feelings of loneliness, 27% experience depression, and 14.5% suffer from anxiety. These conditions can impair focus and alertness on the road, raising safety concerns. Daharry argued that mental health promotion, assessment, and treatment must be prioritized to improve the trucking environment.
Daharry discussed the concept of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), which teaches individuals how to assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training equips people to handle physical emergencies, MHFA prepares them to respond to mental health emergencies. “We often overlook the signs of mental distress,” she said. “Many individuals won’t openly express suicidal thoughts. We need to be equipped to recognize these signs and offer help.”
Telehealth advancements have expanded access to mental health services, yet many companies are not utilizing these resources effectively. Daharry noted that employees experiencing mental distress can lead to significant costs for employers, averaging over $5,700 per employee in turnover. This includes retraining costs when drivers or students leave due to mental health issues.
The relationship between mental health and physical health is crucial. Daharry stated that conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and other physical ailments can stem from untreated mental health problems. “Mental health affects the entire family, especially in cases of substance abuse, which can create a ripple effect of hardship,” she added.
Investing in mental health resources can yield substantial returns. By addressing absenteeism and presenteeism—where individuals are physically present but mentally disengaged—companies can improve productivity. Daharry highlighted that for every $100 invested in mental health services, medical claims decrease by $200.
Implementing Mental Health First Aid training can significantly reduce workplace stress and improve morale. Employees who feel supported are more likely to seek help when needed, which can prevent serious mental health crises. Daharry encouraged the industry to adopt a proactive approach, stating that mental health issues should be treated with the same seriousness as physical ailments.
“You cannot teach empathy, but you can train people to listen and respond effectively to those in need,” she said. Training in reflective listening and non-judgmental communication can create a supportive environment.
The goal is to ensure that truck drivers, a vital part of the economy, have the support they need to maintain their mental health and safety on the roads. By prioritizing mental health through training and resources, the trucking industry can foster a healthier workforce and safer driving conditions.
