Any career has the potential to cause stress, and it’s important to know how to manage this for the sake of your mental and physical health. When it comes to truck driving, there are some unique challenges to take into consideration. However, it is definitely possible to reduce stress levels as a trucker. Following the tips in this article is a good starting point.
1. Take Care of Your Physical Health
Stress negatively affects your health and can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, and increased susceptibility to illness. In addition, the reverse is true and your physical health can affect your stress levels. Taking care of yourself physically can help you manage your stress and feel better on the road.
Some ways to do this include:
- Eat Well: Choose healthier options when you are eating out, and consider meal prepping to save money and improve your diet.
- Exercise Regularly: While it takes some planning, there are many ways to find time to exercise while on the road. Consider getting a pair of running shoes so you can jog around truck stops, or buy small weights for your cab.
- Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is essential for your health and can improve your mood.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep a refillable water bottle with you in your truck and take sips throughout the day.
2. Keep Your Cab Clean and Organized
A messy environment can increase your stress levels. Over-the-road truckers spend the majority of their time in their trucks and the area doubles as a workplace and living space. If it’s messy or unorganized, you’re likely to feel the effects on your mood.
Make a cleaning schedule for your truck and stick to this. Since it’s a relatively small space, you won’t need to devote as much time as you may think. Making sure that you have a place for everything and stay organized is helpful as well.
3. Stay in Touch With Friends and Family
Spending time away from friends and family back home can be difficult and can increase stress. To minimize the effects of this, find ways to stay in touch while you are on the road. Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with our loved ones from a distance. Schedule regular phone calls and video chats and spend quality time together in person when you are home.
4. Slow Down
A significant portion of the stress truckers experience is due to a pressure to get things done quickly. If you find yourself getting stressed, take a second to slow down, breathe, and calm yourself down. This is not only helpful for reducing stress levels, but is also beneficial for your safety on the road.
5. Ask for Help When You Need It
Everyone can benefit from help from time to time. Make an effort to find a support system of fellow truckers, and ask them for help and advice if you are overwhelmed. You can find others in the trucking industry by connecting with co-workers or visiting online forums.
A Family-Focused Trucking Company
At DSW, we care about our drivers and know you by name, not by number. We are a family-focused motor carrier with a small company feel and freight rivaling the larger carriers. Our management is made up of former truckers who understand what life on the open road is like. We work hard to reduce your stress by helping you get miles, get paid, and get home regularly.
To learn more about our available regional and over-the-road trucking jobs, contact us today.
