In Australia, truck driving is the most prevalent occupation among men, with approximately 200,000 truck drivers recorded nationwide. The transport industry presents some unique health risks with the lifestyle of many truck drivers marked by isolation and prolonged sedentary behaviour, leading to substantial health consequences. Research shows that a significant portion of health impacts in this sector stem not only from acute injuries but predominantly from chronic health conditions.
Emerging studies indicate a rising awareness of the mental health challenges faced by truck drivers. A cross-sectional study revealed that half of the surveyed drivers exhibited levels of psychological distress that were low for their cohort but high compared to the general population, with 13.3% demonstrating severe psychological distress indicative of potential mental health disorders. Notably, truck drivers in the US reported depression rates double that of the average worker, signalling a concerning trend that extends globally. Chronic stressors linked to demanding schedules, long hours, and time pressures significantly contribute to drivers' anxiety and burnout.
Poor mental health among truck drivers does not just impact well-being; it also affects driving safety. Mental health disorders can hinder critical reaction times and comprehension, raising the risk of accidents on the road.
Understanding and support for truck drivers' mental well-being must adopt a comprehensive approach. A systematic evidence review highlighted a biopsychosocial model that encompasses a range of interacting factors—occupational, environmental, regulatory, and lifestyle—that influence truck drivers' health. Factors such as work pressures, the quality of relationships with partners, coworkers, and management are crucial in shaping mental wellness.
In light of these complexities, the Driving Health mixed-methods study aims to assess the health status of Australian drivers and identify potential solutions. Utilizing two national surveys, the study highlights both physical and mental health aspects impacting truck drivers. Participants were recruited via social media and completed the surveys on the Qualtrics Insight Platform.
The psychological distress of truck drivers identified in the study can be influenced by a wide range of determinants including personal, occupational, workplace environment, regulation, lifestyle, and health risk domains. This suggests that industry-based interventions should focus on those modifiable risks and address multiple domains. The findings also suggest that some factors contributing to increased psychological distress can be beyond the driver's control, therefore interventions should be targeted towards multiple levels and stakeholders in the transport industry, to help drivers to be healthy and stay healthy at work.