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Mental health crisis for van and truck drivers

Mental health crisis for van and truck drivers

One in five commercial vehicle drivers struggle with their mental health and wellbeing, new research by transport solution specialist Samsara suggests.

Published 18 Oct 2024By CV Show News

Samsara also discovered less than half (49%) are satisfied with their work-life balance and 41% said they are likely to leave their job in the next 12 months.The findings coincide with World Mental Health Day in October, an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.

It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organisation with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.

As the darker winter months set in and workload becomes busier in the run-up to Black Friday and the festive season, many commercial drivers find themselves working longer hours, which will in turn increase stress and mental health challenges.

Samsara says that there is a greater need for fleets to foster supportive cultures around mental health, encouraging open discussions and necessary care.

Philip van der Wilt, senior vice president and GM EMEA at Samsara, said: “Conversations around mental health should be encouraged industry-wide and organisations should monitor driving hours and support their drivers.

“Fortunately, technology can support them in doing so by monitoring driver behaviour and flagging potential hazards before they happen. With the right technology and open-minded approaches towards mental health discussions, we can prioritise safety and wellbeing across the industry.”

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