Mental health of truck drivers: An underestimated risk
Long journeys, cramped driver cabins, time pressure and social isolation – the everyday life of truck drivers is a major challenge and can lead to considerable psychological stress. Depression, anxiety and burnout are not uncommon in this professional group. But the topic of mental health often remains hidden, as shame and fear of stigmatization prevent many drivers from seeking help.
Everyday working life: pressure, loneliness, lack of appreciation
The working conditions of truck drivers are indeed challenging. Long periods away from home, often in cramped driver's cabs, the pressure to adhere to strict schedules and respect rest times, put drivers under a lot of pressure, both physically and mentally. Added to this is the social isolation caused by separation from family and friends as well as the lack of free time and opportunities for social activities.
The daily struggle of truck drivers
The challenges truck drivers face are not limited to traffic jams, but also include dangerous situations with other road users. It's literally a fight on the street, because no one gives the other an inch of space. In 2020 alone, there were over 22,000 truck accidents with injuries or fatalities. Fortunately, the number of such accidents is decreasing, in part due to improved vehicle technology and stricter rest time regulations.
Alarmingly high disease rates
The situation of truck drivers in Germany is alarming, as the latest study by Barmer health insurance shows. Compared to other professional groups, they are sick significantly more often, with an increase in days lost by 13.5 percent from 2020 to 2022. With an average of 32.7 sick days in 2022, truck drivers are well above the average for all employees.
The high rate of illness not only has a negative impact on the health of drivers, but also puts a strain on the transport industry as a whole, with significant costs for freight forwarders and hauliers. Musculoskeletal disorders, injuries and psychological problems are the most common complaints.
The reasons for this are long working hours, physical strain and the aging of the driver population. Solutions include improving working conditions, investing in infrastructure and promoting healthy eating, as well as raising awareness of mental health.
Everyone can make a contribution by becoming informed, speaking to truck drivers, supporting initiatives and demanding measures from politicians and companies to improve the situation. Only through joint action can the health of truck drivers and the future of the transport industry be secured in the long term.
Trucksters and Cristobal: Online therapy as a glimmer of hope
The Spanish start-up Trucksters and the health app provider Cristobal have addressed this problem and offer truck drivers the opportunity to take part in psychotherapeutic sessions online. This initiative aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and offer drivers low-threshold and flexible support tailored specifically to their needs.
Online therapy: a first step in the right direction?
The online therapy sessions are designed to help drivers deal with the challenges of the job and cope with psychological stress. Initial feedback shows a positive response, although it is still too early for a final assessment. However, the question remains whether online therapy can adequately replace personal contact and individual support from a therapist.
Fighting stigma and normalizing help: A shared change
One of the biggest challenges is reducing the stigma of mental illness in the industry and ensuring drivers don't have to fear disadvantage if they choose to seek treatment. This requires a mindset shift in the industry and an open attitude towards employee mental health.
Conclusion: Trucksters and Cristobal are making an important statement
Trucksters and Cristobal's initiative is a significant step in the right direction to improve the mental health of truck drivers. These drivers suffer from enormous stress, loneliness and often a lack of appreciation. The long journeys mean that they don't see their families for days or even weeks, and usually for little money.
Online therapy can provide valuable support by helping drivers deal with these challenges. But in order to solve the problem sustainably, a comprehensive approach is required. Improved working conditions, more recognition and support, and a more open approach to mental health are essential to improving the lives of truck drivers and securing the future of the transport industry. Only by acting together can we help ensure these essential workers receive the support and appreciation they deserve.
