If you spend a lot of time alone on the open road there are some important ways to be aware of to keep healthy in body and mind. Being isolated could have a damaging effect on your health and well being. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recently interviewed nearly 1,700 truckers about their health and work—and the results were shocking.
69% were obese. 54% smoked. And 88% reported at least one risk factor for chronic disease. We’ve compiled a few recommendations so we all can be health conscious and proactive to take proper care! Have a read below!
- Join a wellness program
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will requires self discipline. It may involve joining a program such as health coaching, nutritionists or tobacco counseling to develop new healthy habits or reduce chronic illnesses like depression, sleep apnea and obesity. Check with your insurance if a wellness program is available to join. Using a wellness program could greatly reduce stress and the risk of other health concerns.
- Explore fitness options
You need to commit to a consistent plan by giving you the time and the opportunity to eat healthier and to exercise more. You can also get your own bike and ride on the specific areas. If you want to get in shape, you can also download the Iron Trucker Fitness app to bring the gym to yourself. The app includes a database of exercises you can perform using your tractor-trailer.
- Increase mental stimulation
Keep constantly your brain in shape while driving. Listen to audiobooks, podcasts or lean a new language will keep your brain waves moving to maintain proper intellectual stimulation, boost your ability to multitask and think deeply. No matter how mentally fit you think you are, it is important to get additional exercise while you drive to stimulate your brain.
- Develop a stable sleep schedule
Sleep deprivation causes every year almost 100 000 vehicle accidents and 1550 fatalities a year. The human body needs 7-8 hours of rest a day. Sleeping is very important to your overall well-being. Fatigue is an important safety issue for truck drivers. To improve your sleep you need to create a relaxing and quiet bedtime routine along with a good sleep environment to improve your sleep. Close all curtains and truck shades or use an eye mask. Try also to sleep at the same time everyday.
- Socialize with family and friends
One of the main reason people get away from traffic is the relentless solitude; the isolation from their home and their family that can push truck drivers to drug use or accident. Maintain contact with family and friends to lessen the feelings of loneliness and isolation. Make a plan to stay in touch with loved ones at home and make the most of your time when you are with them.