Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is an issue that affects all kinds of people, from all kinds of cultures, from all kinds of backgrounds.  Having mental health issues can leave people feeling hopeless, tired and negative.

HGV drivers can be particularly vulnerable to mental health problems. A study conducted by mental health charity MIND found that 30% of illnesses in the transport and logistics industry are mental health-related, and because these cases were self-reported, this figure may actually be a lot higher.

This is possibly due to the role itself can be isolating, with a standard working day often with long periods of time away from family can become a contributing factor to depression. Whilst there are no set causes for mental health problems, it can be aggravated by poor physical health due to a lack regular exercise, an unhealthy diet and insufficient quality of sleep – issues which are common amongst HGV drivers.

There is still a massive stigma around talking about mental health issues, especially in the HGV/LGV community, as it can be considered a weakness.  

Having a mental health illness does not always mean a person cannot drive safely, and currently there are no mental health problems which will automatically prevent someone from driving, however there are those of which will need to be disclosed to the DVLA if they affect someone’s ability to drive. 

What’s more, a driver could be fined up to £1,000 if they withhold information about a condition which could affect their driving and could be prosecuted if they are involved in an accident as a result.

One of the most effective ways to address mental health problems is to talk. There are more conversations about mental health happening, but with 1 in 4 people said to experience a mental health problem in any given year, we all have a responsibility to do more to help tackle these issues.

It is extremely common to feel alone, especially when driving an HGV so, by talking to someone it shows there are people who care about what you have to say.

By ensuring you maintain a good diet and exercise as much as you can will help you become more positive.  It can be hard with the lifestyle and working hours of a logistics driver to eat healthy and exercise but, it is vital you try your best to be active and healthy.