Supporting Drivers Beyond the Cab

SCF assists drivers who are sick or injured with short-term essential living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, vehicle payments, and insurance. These resources help drivers maintain stability while recovering and staying on track financially.

Driven to be Healthy

The Driven to be Healthy initiative is SCF’s comprehensive approach to health and wellness. It focuses on preventive care and small, actionable lifestyle changes that can make a lasting impact. All programs under Driven to be Healthy are fully free to Class A OTR drivers.

Rigs Without Cigs

Rigs Without Cigs is SCF’s longest-running tobacco cessation program. Drivers have access to Habitrol nicotine patches, a certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, online support groups, and incentive prizes for reaching tobacco-free milestones. This program is supported by SCF partner RoadPro.

Vaccine Vouchers

The Vaccination Vouchers program provides flu, shingles, pneumonia, and COVID-19 vaccines for drivers. Vouchers can be redeemed at Walgreens, Kroger and the Kroger Family of Pharmacies, The Little Clinic, Walmart, and Sam’s Club locations nationwide. Support from OOIDA allows drivers to use vouchers conveniently while away from home.

Get Preventive Screenings (GPS)

The Get Preventative Screenings (GPS) program offers preventive screenings, including colorectal and prostate cancer, with cervical cancer screenings coming soon. The program allows drivers to complete testing while on the road. Colorectal cancer results are available in five minutes, and PSA results for prostate cancer are returned within two weeks, thanks to SCF partner Call-on-Doc.

Healthy Habits for the Long Haul (HH4LH)

Healthy Habits for the Long Haul (HH4LH) is a 12-week virtual program that helps drivers prevent and manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. The program covers nutrition labels, hydration, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and more. Drivers can participate in small group sessions, sharing challenges and strategies with fellow OTR drivers.

Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is another 12-week virtual course designed to reduce the risk of diabetes. Drivers receive a toolkit including a scale, blood pressure cuff, glucose meter, body tape measure, fitness tracker, and resistance bands. The program recently reintroduced the CDC’s year-long Diabetes Prevention Program in partnership with HabitNu. Participants benefit from the HabitNu app, which provides tracking tools, podcasts, and trucking-tailored workouts, helping prediabetic drivers prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

Telehealth and Mental Health Support

SCF recognizes that health also includes mental well-being. Partners such as Call-on-Doc, Everywhere. Care, MindHealth Management, and Corporate Chaplains of America provide telehealth services, counseling, and support for drivers nationwide. These services make medical care and mental health support accessible even while on the road.

Getting Started

Drivers interested in SCF’s free health and wellness programs can register at truckersfund.org/healthwellness. To suggest topics for future programs or share ideas, contact Lindsey Bryan, SCF Health and Wellness Manager, at health@truckersfund.org.

By offering preventive care, wellness programs, and mental health resources, SCF empowers drivers to stay healthy, maintain their livelihoods, and thrive on the road.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source:Truckers Fund

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Why Mental Health Deserves Attention

Recent studies indicate that about 22% of American truck drivers have had a diagnosis of depression, and even more experience periods of stress or loneliness while working. Good mental health doesn’t just help you enjoy the work; it can sharpen reaction times and boost job performance.

Notice the Early Signs

Every driver is different, but a few common signs can point to mounting stress:

• Tension that sticks around, even off duty
• Not enjoying familiar interests or activities
• Feeling worn out after a full night’s sleep
• Having a hard time picking up speed in the morning
• Forgetfulness or trouble concentrating

Making note of these early on gives you time to act.

Steps to Improve Your Mental Well-Being

Keep Up With a Routine

Predictability helps. Try to stick to certain wake-up times, exercise, or paths of communication each day—even during busy weeks. Keeping to these small anchors can set a reliable rhythm.

Make Connections

Social connections matter. Maybe this is a regular call to family, checking in with other drivers at stops, or dropping in on an online group between runs. Sharing a quick story or catching up for a few minutes can remind you that you’re part of a bigger community.

Try Mindful Breaks

Pause for a few deep breaths at a rest area, or simply take a moment to check in with how you’re feeling. A breathing exercise or a short guided meditation (many audio apps offer free versions) can make a hectic day more manageable.

Get Good Sleep and Food

Rest fuels both mood and reaction times. Blocking out light in the cab, bringing a favorite pillow, or setting a habit of turning off electronics before sleep can improve rest. Healthy snacks picked up on the road—like nuts, fruit, or yogurt—help maintain steady energy.

Use Available Support

Many companies offer support lines, call-in counseling, or “check-in” apps designed for drivers. These resources are confidential and can make it easier to talk through what’s on your mind. Telehealth services are often available in most states and can be reached from a smartphone.

Personalize Your Cab for Comfort

A clean, personalized cab space helps you relax when work is done. Small items brought from home, like photos, comfortable bedding, or a favorite playlist, make the space your own and can improve your mood.

Know When to Reach Out

Using these simple steps is often enough, but sometimes it helps to bring in a professional. If stress feels overwhelming or lasts for more than a few weeks, reaching out to a counselor is an important move for your safety and well-being. Trucking alliances and mental health hotlines can be contacted anytime you need them.

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