Do truck drivers suffer from depression?

Depression in truckers really exists in the trucking industry, although not widely known or discussed much. In America, 1.5% of the population suffers from depression. In comparison, 13.6% of truck drivers suffer from some level of depression, a drastic difference from the rest of the population.

Can truck drivers take anxiety medication?

Short-acting anxiolytics (anxiety relievers) such as Lunesta and Ambien are not disqualifying as long as the short-acting preparation is used, and the driver leaves enough time for the drug to clear his system before driving.

Can truck drivers have anxiety?

Depression is often associated with stress and anxiety, so a stressful work environment can put employees at a greater risk. Long-haul truck drivers are vulnerable to depression due to the high demands of their job, including: Extended periods of time away from family and friends.

Can you drive a semi with mental illness?

Most often, if this is the only health issue you have – and/or the only form of mental disorder you are dealing with and it’s stable with treatment – your regular doctor should give you an acceptable report. If this is the case, your DOT physical provider will also most likely agree to certify you medically to drive.

Why are truck drivers so angry?

Truck drivers are often perceived to be rude for one simple reason: inertia. Trucks have a lot of inertia and therefore take a lot longer than cars to safely slow down, speed up, or change lanes. Such slow responsivity can seem like rudeness to other drivers. Large trucks are very massive compared to normals cars.

Are truck drivers unhappy?

In America, 1.5% of the population suffers from depression. In comparison, 13.6% of truck drivers suffer from some level of depression, a drastic difference from the rest of the population. It’s something we need to pay attention to and be aware of the signs of depression as professional drivers.

Can you be a truck driver with bipolar?

A 2009 FMCSA Medical report states: It is the opinion of the MEP that all individuals with a history of the following psychiatric disorders should undergo additional medical and psychiatric evaluation to further assess functional ability before being considered qualified to drive a CMV: Bipolar Disorders.

Can Truck drivers use Chantix?

The FMCSA hasn’t banned Chantix for truckers or bus drivers. But the FMCSA states that “it appears that medical examiners should not certify a driver taking Chantix because the medication may adversely affect the driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.”

Can DOT drivers take Xanax?

If you are taking any of the following prescription medications, bring the actual prescription bottles with you to your DOT exam: Ambien (zolpidem), anxiolytics such as Alprazolam, lorazepam, Xanax, and pain medications such as hydrocodone/APAP, Vicodin, tramadol, or oxycodone.

What mental disorders disqualify you from CDL?

Some of the primary categories of Mental Health that will cause concern for the DMV are: Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Are truck drivers miserable?

Truck drivers are one of the least happy careers in the United States. As it turns out, truck drivers rate their career happiness 2.7 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 10% of careers.

How do truckers say thank you?

Often times a truck driver will flash his trailer lights as a “thank you” for your courtesy. “I am slowing down or stopping.” When you’re driving on the highway for a long time, you experience something called velocitization. This means that your ability to recognize changes in speed goes down.

What to do for mental health while driving a truck?

Bring along some comforts of home, like a tv, computer, decent good quality bedding etc. Music. Take along some favourite music to listen to when driving. Take time for daily showers, grooming. Truck drivers are often criticized for being dirty. Don’t allow yourself to be pushed by ridiculous schedules.

Is it good to be a truck driver?

Trucking is a tough business. The work can be brutal. Being a driver, particularly a long distance trucker, is a decision that should be carefully considered before jumping in with both feet. It can be a serious strain on the mental health of even the most stable individuals.

What’s the best thing to do when you are a trucker?

Consider long haul trucking for only a short time, not for the entire duration of your trucking career. It’s hard on the body and the mind. Choose your rest stops carefull y. Stop at nice, clean truck stops. Get a hotel room occasionally. Getting away from the truck is a good idea to give yourself a well-deserved break.

What’s the best way to deal with mental health?

One good coping strategy for good mental health, is to live as close to a normal routine as possible. Make every attempt to be comfortable and contented, when on the road. Travel with a companion. It could be a pet, spouse or significant other, every now and then, if allowed.