How Commercial Drivers Can Navigate Through Depression
As a commercial driver, you face several challenges: long hours alone, extended time away from family and friends, irregular or broken sleep, and work-related pressures. You must meet delivery deadlines while managing challenging driving conditions and following the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) safety regulations. All of these factors can make you more susceptible to depression and other mental health issues.
According to a questionnaire published in 2012, 26% of truckers reported symptoms of depression. Comparatively, only 9.2% of the general population experienced a major depressive episode in 2020. Because depression is prevalent in your career field and can impact your commercial driver’s license, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms.
What Is Depression?
Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and unworthiness categorize major depression. You can feel fatigued and struggle to focus on tasks or make decisions. You may have changes in your appetite or weight without trying. Depending on the severity of your depression, you can have thoughts of passively dying or actively ending your life.
To be diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD), you must have these symptoms for at least 14 consecutive days. Once you reach this point, the symptoms don’t typically resolve on their own and can start to impact your daily life.
Specific Treatments Can Keep You from Driving Commercially
Any medications in the benzodiazepine drug class can impair your driving and increase your crash risk. More commonly prescribed for anxiety, your doctor may prescribe them if you have some panic attack features with your depression, or as a sleep aid. You must wait to operate heavy machinery until the drug clears your system. The medical examiner must make a qualification determination on a case-by-case basis and may elect to disqualify you from driving. Speak to your doctor about alternative medications if needed.
Another treatment for severe MDD is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This treatment can cause short-term disorientation or confusion. You can suffer short-term, temporary, or permanent memory loss. Because of this, the FMCSA has a minimum waiting period of six months following any ECT treatment before you can drive commercially.
Reduce Your Risk of Depression on the Road
Stay connected with loved ones while driving. Schedule daily phone calls or video chats with friends and family on the road. Ensure you are taking breaks and getting some exercise. Even low-intensity activities like walking can boost your endorphins, your body’s natural protection against mood problems like depression. Try and time your breaks or exercise to get some sunshine. Being outside in the sun can boost your overall mood.
Finally, reach out for help when noticing a downward mood trend. This is vital if you already have a history of depression; ignoring your symptoms can lead to a more serious problem impacting your driving clearance. Early intervention can prevent a minor speed bump from becoming a roadblock and keep you on the road.