Truck drivers undertake one of our economy’s most demanding and essential jobs. We recognize the vital role drivers play and their significant impact on our daily lives. From driving long hours, driving through unruly traffic, or simply being away from family and friends, it’s easy to see how life on the road can create a lot of stress. Not only does stress cause impatience and frustration, but it can affect your body and the way it functions! Physical signs of stress can include but are not limited to low energy, headaches, upset stomach, aches, pains, tense muscles, insomnia, frequent colds and infections, nervousness, and cold or sweaty hands and feet. However, stress doesn’t have to ruin your day or affect your health. All drivers should take a proactive approach to manage stress and take advantage of the following tips.
Plan Your Trip in Advance
Preparation is key. Planning your route can lessen your stress before you even hit the road. Plan your route to avoid traffic, construction delays and give yourself extra time. You can use apps such as Trucker Path or DriveWyze to plan your route. Check out our list of apps that can help plan your trips and make your life easier while on the road.
Stay Active
Driving requires you to stay seated for extended periods of time. Sitting for long periods has been linked with a number of health concerns. Worrying about your health can lead to a tremendous amount of stress. Exercise can help to reduce the negative effects stress has on your body. Moving and stretching will help you feel better both mentally and physically .If you are at a truck stop, gas station, or rest area, get out of your truck, stretch for 3-5 minutes, or take a short walk.
Stay Well Rested
A good night’s sleep is an excellent remedy for stress. Sleeping for 7-9 hours a night helps to boost mood and energy levels that keep you awake and alert throughout the day. To ensure a good night’s sleep, keep your room dark and cool, turning off electronics before bed. If you feel tired and worn out, take an extra hour or two to regain your strength. A well-rested driver keeps themselves and everyone on the road safe.
Clear Your Mind
It’s hard to eat healthy on the road, but your diet directly affects your health, energy, mood, and stress levels. Try to make minor modifications to your diet and bring your own nutritious snacks for your trip. Staying well-hydrated also helps fight stress and fatigue, so make sure you are drinking lots of water along with your healthy snacks.
Change Your Eating Habits
It’s hard to eat healthy on the road, but your diet directly affects your health, energy, mood, and stress levels. Try to make minor modifications to your diet and bring your own nutritious snacks for your trip. Staying well-hydrated also helps fight stress and fatigue, so make sure you are drinking lots of water along with your healthy snacks.
