Simple Anxiety Management Tips for Truck Drivers

Only 2.4 % of all road fatalities nationwide relate to truck driving according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, truck driving remains one of the most hazardous jobs you can have. Truck drivers diagnosed with driving anxiety may find it challenging because of the many trauma triggers they face as they drive long lonely distances. Generally, if you have been diagnosed with anxiety, you can try out a well-structured anxiety treatment plan that can offer relief.

Bad habits increase stress

First, truck drivers need to reduce their stress levels. You can do this by avoiding excessive drinking, overeating, smoking, drug taking and other unhealthy habits. Ironically, people develop these unhealthy habits when they are trying to reduce their stress levels. Doing unhealthy things to manage stress may work in the short-term but can also damage your body in the long term.

Drinking caffeinated beverages and driving on an empty stomach may also trigger anxiety in drivers.  So eat enough food and drink a lot of water to avoid increasing stress.

Be a stress managing guru

Truck drivers will always face some kind of challenge on the road no matter what type of truck they are driving.  The difficult circumstances drivers face on the road include demanding schedules, bad weather, reckless drivers, bad roads, exhaustion and more. Listen to a variety of soft classical or popular music to bring you to a state of relaxation. Try and get the kind of music that helps you relax without making you fall asleep on the road.

Take more breaks

Some drivers plan ahead on how to deal with a problem that may come their way to deal with stress. You can also manage stress by taking more breaks. This may not be an option for many drivers of commercial trucks because of shift limits and also filled up truck stops and rest areas. However, getting a driving partner allows you to take a break and catch up on sleep.

Strengthen your body

Managing stress is much easier if your body is strong and healthy. One way to stay strong is by exercising using stress balls. Stress balls help reduce stress and also strengthen your hands and improve dexterity. There are also simple leg exercises that you can do to improve blood flow as you drive on an empty lane or road.  Incorporate all these methods in your anxiety management plan to live a longer and healthier life. If you still feel your level of anxiety is very high, you may need to get help from a doctor.

Photo Credit:

Orlando Leon