10 Practical Tips For Good Mental Health, Just For Truckers

Big Rig Truck Speeding on Highway

Man sitting on the grass by a fence with his dog, relaxingWhen living on the road, tips for good mental health are imperative  for the truck driver.

The life of a trucker is by no means an easy one.

Life on the road can be pretty tough at times.

The professional driver can be away from home for extended periods of time.  The living conditions can be far less than favourable.

The stress of driving in heavy traffic and inclement weather can really take it’s toll on the mental health of a driver.

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.

10 Tips For Good Mental Health – Especially For Truck Drivers

  1. Travel with a companion. It could be a pet, spouse or significant other, every now and then, if allowed.
  2. Contact home daily. It’s a good way to stay connected to the family  and ‘in the loop’ with your loved ones.
  3. Follow a routine on the road which is similar to your normal at home every day routine.
  4. Bring along some comforts of home, like a tv, computer, decent good quality bedding etc.
  5. Music. Take along some favourite music to listen to when driving.
  6. Take time for daily showers, grooming. Truck drivers are often criticized for being dirty. Don’t allow yourself to be pushed by ridiculous schedules. Taking the time to freshen up and wear fresh clothes each day, will help set a better mood for the day. You’ll feel better for taking the time to do this.
  7. Plan time off away from your truck. This can be done successfully if you budget for it.  Life on the road, can be expensive.
  8. 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.
  9. Choose your rest stops carefully. Stop at nice, clean truck stops.
  10. Get a hotel room occasionally. Getting away from the truck is a good idea to give yourself a well-deserved break.

The life of a trucker can be both enjoyable and successful. It’s a giant balancing act, but it can be done.

Truck drivers who are successful over the road drivers know that the game isn’t to be the fastest truck on the road, with a perfect on-time delivery schedule.

Successful drivers are those who consistently deliver their loads safely, in a timely fashion, while maintaining a decent standard of living.

Sometimes, OTR drivers forget how to live. They complete one trip after the next, without sufficient time off and living in between trips.

Some allow the driving job to take over their life. Don’t fall victim to this dangerous cycle.

OTR Jobs Are NOT For All Truckers

Some OTR trucking jobs can be quite lucrative and can provide freedom like no other job. But, these jobs are not suited to all truckers.

Long distance driving can be stressful.  Truckers are away from home for long periods of time.

It can be pretty damned lonely at times and very, very hard on the family at home.

It is NOT a normal lifestyle nor one that I’d recommend if you have a family but it can be done, but it is not easy.

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.

Consider seeking out some tips for good mental health to keep you in good health and at your best.

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