In a recent study by DAT Freight & Analytics, it has been uncovered that nearly 75% of truck drivers feel their jobs are both physically and emotionally stressful.
The study also sheds light on a distressing trend among drivers, revealing that many of them are struggling to prioritize their own well-being.
“As the country prepares for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, from Sept. 10-16, and celebrates the vital role of truck drivers in our economy, the DAT survey results show why it’s important to empathize with the challenges they face in their personal and professional lives,” said Jeff Hopper, chief marketing officer at DAT. “For all that you are, and all that you do. We thank you, truck drivers.”
Out of 504 participants, 337 of them were truck owners, providing valuable insights into the conditions that contribute to their road-related stress.
Below are a few highlights from the study.
- Drivers miss time with friends and family: 54% of truck drivers spend less than 24 hours a week at home.
- Drivers have a long workweek: 33% of drivers are driving more than 49 hours a week.
- Nutrition is a challenge: 63% of truckers cook meals in their truck two to six days a week, and 37% eat fast food two to three days a week.
- Long hours make it difficult to manage sleep and exercise: 63% of truckers sleep 6 hours or less per night, and 38% of truck drivers say they take medication to help them sleep.
According to the survey, almost half of truck drivers (46%) believe that having access to mental health services would be effective in managing their stress. It should be noted, however, that only 40% of male drivers expressed openness to speaking with a counselor or therapist about their emotions and experiences. In contrast, 58% of female drivers expressed a willingness to explore these options.
Family members of truckers often struggle to understand the challenges of living and working on the road. In fact, over 71% of truckers’ children chose not to pursue the same career path, despite having experienced it firsthand during their younger years.
“Many truck drivers develop strategies to manage the long hours, isolation and health issues that come with the job,” Hopper said. “However, finding suitable places for sleep, healthy meals, and other necessities are constant challenges. It’s essential to recognize the role truckers play in our economy and to do whatever we can to recognize their hard work.”
Source: The Trucker
