Trucker Health: A Roadmap to Better Health for OTR Drivers

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is that special time of the year when we pause to express our gratitude to the dedicated men and women who tirelessly traverse the nation’s highways, ensuring the smooth flow of commerce. While we show these road warrior heroes much well-deserved appreciation, one logistics company, Truckstop, is going above and beyond and thinking about ways to improve Trucker Health and OTR Drivers’ Wellbeing.

On the 8th of September, Truckstop unveiled the findings of an extensive survey that delved into the hurdles faced by over 500 long-haul truck drivers when it comes to nutrition, physical fitness, and mental well-being, all pivotal aspects of Trucker Health. The primary objective of this survey was crystal clear: “to gain insights into the difficulties they encounter in their quest to maintain Trucker Health by adhering to a healthy diet and an active lifestyle on the road.”

Dietary Dilemmas Impacting Trucker Health

For truck drivers, the quest for a nutritious meal while on the open road can be akin to navigating uncharted territory, posing significant challenges to their Trucker Health:

Limited Food Options: A considerable challenge is the scarcity of healthy dining options that accommodate trucks, with 43% of truck drivers encountering this problem.

Time Constraints: The demanding nature of their profession leaves little room for seeking out nutritious meals, as 40% cited a lack of time as a major constraint.

Cooking Conundrum: Thirty-six percent of drivers confessed to not having the equipment needed to cook their own meals in their trucks, making them reliant on alternatives, which can be detrimental to their Trucker Health.

Cost Considerations: The price of healthier food options was another hurdle, with 34% indicating that these alternatives often come with a higher price tag, making it harder to maintain their Trucker Health.

Despite these hurdles, 59% of truck drivers surveyed believe they succeed in maintaining Trucker Health by sustaining a healthy diet while on the road. Encouragingly, 37% stated that they occasionally whip up their meals, demonstrating their commitment to a balanced diet and their Trucker Health.

Physical Fitness Challenges on the Path to Trucker Health 

Maintaining physical activity during long-haul journeys presents its own set of challenges, directly affecting Trucker Health. The survey uncovered these roadblocks:

Fatigue and Time Constraints: A striking 52% of truck drivers pointed to exhaustion from extended hours behind the wheel as the primary obstacle to regular exercise, an essential component of Trucker Health. Additionally, 48% struggled to find time for exercise due to their demanding schedules, hindering their pursuit of better Trucker Health.

Limited Exercise Opportunities: Nearly half of the respondents (48%) faced difficulties in locating suitable exercise spots during their stops, impeding their progress towards achieving better Trucker Health.

Inactivity Predicament: A substantial portion of long-haul drivers remains sedentary throughout the day, with only 36% managing to stop for exercise three or more times daily, potentially jeopardizing their Trucker Health.

Despite these challenges, 90% of truck drivers still find a way to squeeze in at least one exercise session per week, with 69% fitting in one to two workouts weekly. The survey also highlighted diverse workout preferences, with 44% favoring outdoor settings, a refreshing choice that contributes positively to their Trucker Health, and 40% opting for parks or hiking trails. Remarkably, 40% of drivers are willing to exercise within the confines of their trucks if circumstances demand it, emphasizing their dedication to preserving their Trucker Health.

Mental Well-being and Its Connection to Trucker Health

While job satisfaction among truck drivers remains relatively high at 84%, the survey unveiled significant insights into their mental well-being, a crucial facet of overall Trucker Health:

Stress Levels: An overwhelming 88% of respondents admitted to experiencing a high (26%) or moderate (62%) overall stress level in their profession, which can significantly affect their Trucker Health, with only 12% reporting low stress levels.

Job Satisfaction and Stress: Interestingly, job satisfaction soared to 93% among those who reported low overall job stress levels, highlighting the intricate link between job satisfaction and Trucker Health.

Mental health is an indispensable facet of overall well-being and a crucial component of Trucker Health. The solitude that accompanies their profession often leads to feelings of loneliness, which, in turn, can trigger a cascade of negative emotions, including depression and anxiety, directly impacting Trucker Health.

Buck Black, a therapist, stressed the importance of acknowledging and addressing these emotions as they relate to Trucker Health. He emphasized the significance of accepting one’s feelings, even in an industry known for its stoicism. Loneliness, if left unattended, can impact personal relationships and overall job satisfaction, further highlighting its relevance to Trucker Health.

Combatting Mental Health Issues for Better Trucker Health

Effectively dealing with mental health challenges necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses physical well-being, a vital aspect of Trucker Health:

Adequate Rest: Ensuring adequate rest is of paramount importance, as fatigue can exacerbate stress and emotional challenges, directly affecting Trucker Health.

Healthy Eating: Despite the challenges, making a conscious effort to locate nutritious meals can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health, contributing to better Trucker Health.

Exercise: Incorporating regular exercise into one’s routine, even during brief breaks, can yield substantial benefits for both physical and mental well-being, fostering improved Trucker Health. 

Open Communication: Being forthright and transparent about one’s emotions is vital. Seeking support from peers or professionals can help navigate the path to improved mental health, a pivotal element of Trucker Health.

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week provides a welcome opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and unwavering commitment of truck drivers who crisscross the nation. It is also a moment to spotlight the challenges they face concerning their health, both physical and mental, essential aspects of Trucker Health. Truckstop’s survey serves as a compass, directing us to the areas where truck drivers encounter obstacles on their journey towards preserving and enhancing their Trucker Health.

It is heartening to witness truck drivers’ resilience and determination as they strive to maintain Trucker Health by seeking out healthier food options, finding innovative ways to incorporate exercise into their schedules, and addressing mental health. Equally important is their acknowledgment of and willingness to address the mental health aspects of their profession, underscoring their commitment to comprehensive Trucker Health. 

As we celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, let us not only shower them with gratitude but also recognize the significance of supporting truck drivers as they navigate the path to better Trucker Health. While the road ahead may be challenging, with continued awareness and effort, the voyage towards improved well-being for these essential members of our workforce becomes all the more achievable.

View more results from the Truckstop survey here.