These PTSD symptoms may affect your ability to continue to work as a truck driver even if you have achieved a full physical recovery from the injury-inducing accident. It could also strain your personal relationships. So if you experience any of these symptoms or don’t feel okay, you may consider getting help from a professional as soon as possible.
Sleep Disorders
Truck drivers are notoriously prone to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea due to the nature of the job. The emotional distress after a traumatic trucking injury could further aggravate any preexisting sleep condition, making it difficult for the victim to function properly.
Truck driving often involves long hours and long-distance travel, which means that every truck driver should have their wits about them to drive safely. Sleep disorders can prevent you from getting the rest you need which could impair your cognitive abilities and affect your driving.
If you drive without enough rest, you’d be putting yourself and other road users at risk. Therefore it is crucial to get help if you’ve been having trouble sleeping since your trucking accident.
Alcohol or Substance Abuse
Sometimes when a person’s injuries affect their bodily functions or cause chronic pain, they may turn to alcohol or controlled substances as a coping mechanism. While drug or alcohol abuse might offer short-term relief, the long-term effects are damaging.
Drug or alcohol abuse can further complicate your physical health conditions and overall welfare. If you’re struggling after an injury, you can get help for any physical and mental health problems from qualified professionals. They can help you heal and manage your new circumstances positively.
Clinical Depression
Clinical depression is a serious mental health issue that may occur after a traumatic event such as a road accident. It is characterized by several symptoms, including
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Significant changes in appetite
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty in thinking
- Feeling sad or moody for extended periods
Clinical depression can affect your life and relationships with others. But it is treatable once a medical professional diagnoses it. Getting help is vital to help you get your life back on track quickly.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
This organization has a dedicated hotline (988) to cater to those struggling with mental health issues and suicidal tendencies across the US. The service is free and available 24/7. Whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed and need someone to talk to immediately, all you need to do is dial the number.
National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI)
By running support groups nationwide, NAMI provides resources and support for people diagnosed with mental health illnesses so they don’t feel alone. They also have a helpline which you can call to get personalized information and support systems.
Trucker-Pet Adoption Programs
Interacting with pets has been scientifically proven to help improve mental health. As a result, pet companies and dog shelters have developed adoption programs for truckers to help reduce the loneliness and depression that comes with the job. Consider this option if you’re struggling with loneliness and other related issues.
If you’re struggling with mental health issues while on the road or after an injury, it is important that you speak up so that you can get the support you need.