JMS of Doncasterhave a fleet of over 35 vehicles, offering same-day deliveries for clients across the UK. We're dedicated to providing a swift and reliable delivery service to our customers, and we're always striving to provide the best service we possibly can. In order to remain on schedule, our drivers have strict timetables to adhere to, with allocated driving and resting times.
It's true that long-haulage deliveries can take a toll on a driver's social life; spending long hours alone in a cabin and several days away from home at a time. Tackling loneliness is an important part of maintaining good mental health, and lorry drivers are no exception. However, with the correct mindset and practising different techniques, we can help put an end to driver loneliness.
We're committed to providing a healthy workplace environment, which of course extends to mental health, so we've come up with a few top tips to help kick driver loneliness to the curb.
1. Sleep, diet and exercise
A good night's sleep is essential to maintaining good mental health, so try to reduce your caffeine and nicotine intake whilst out on the road. On your rest breaks, step out of the cab and stretch your legs, and make sure you have a good meal rather than relying on service snacks!
2. Try podcasts
Listening to podcasts on your favourite topic, or even a radio talk show, can provide a more conversational form of entertainment. There are thousands of podcasts available and with topics from cookery to design, travel to gaming, you're sure to find a topic you'll love.
3. Join a haulage social group
Joining a haulage group on social media is a great way to make new friends, in person and online. You'll even have someone to chat to via instant messaging when you're resting.
4. Make the most of your time at home
We all miss home when we're away, but making the most of your time at home will really help. Planning activities with friends, family or even alone, will give you something to look forward to on your return.
5. Enjoy the journey
Watching a sea of brake lights as you're stuck in traffic on the A1 is never much fun, but haulage driving allows you to drive through places you've never been to before. On more rural routes, you'll see beautiful countryside that even bad weather won't dampen.
Everyone gets lonely from time to time, but if it's affecting your daily life then it's time to take it more seriously. It's important to raise awareness of good mental health within the haulage and distribution industry, so let's get people talking and end loneliness amongst hauliers!
