Navigating the Road to Resilience (RR): understanding the work environment’s influence on mental health among Indian truck drivers | BMC Public Health

The trucking industry heavily relies on the dedication and resilience of truckers who play an important role in ensuring smooth transportation and timely delivery of goods between two long distances. Truck Drivers can be considered one of the most important pillars of the logistic sector but are susceptible to risks due to the disjointed nature of the trucking industry.

Usually, school dropouts or men from poor families join this profession of truck driver initially start as a cleaner and end up learning drive to be a driver. Mostly drivers not the owner of the truck and they work per day for an average of 12.7 h, which effect their quality of life and health [1]. They are poorly paid and have no adequate time for their food and sleep/rest. According to the economic research institute, the average annual salary range for a Heavy Truck Driver in India is between INR 359,266 and INR 594,972, including a bonus [2]. Truck drivers depend on the roadside food stall and eateries for their foods.

Mostly truck drivers earn their wages between 10,000 to 20,000 Indian rupees a month. Their living conditions are appalling; there is no wage uniformity, no social protection, and no rewards for completing a trip on time. They often suffer from driver fatigue due to extensive working hours. On average, each driver drives for about 11.9 h a day. In terms of average distance covered, a truck driver covers approximately 417 km daily. As per the safe live foundation drivers they drive vehicles even if they feel fatigued or sleepy [3]. Long work hours, infrequent breaks, irregular scheduling, and tight delivery or tour schedules can all contribute to truck drivers becoming exhausted and stressed out at work.

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, and physical well-being, impacting their ability to function in daily life. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is a leading research organization dedicated to understanding, treating, and preventing mental health disorders. It operates under the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) and is the largest scientific organization in the world focused on mental health research. NIMH, offers an overview of depression, covering its symptoms, risk factors, and available treatment options. The information is accessible to the general public, promoting mental health awareness [4].

Depression is a complex condition with various contributing factors, and its severity can range from mild to severe. The impact of depression extends beyond the individual, influencing relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. The World Health Organization’s comprehensive report (2017) offers a global perspective on the prevalence of depression and common mental disorders [5]. It highlights the significant burden of these conditions on public health and emphasizes the need for effective interventions.

Table of Contents

Depression among truck drivers globally

Depression is a pervasive mental health issue that affects individuals across various professions, and truck drivers represent a demographic particularly vulnerable to its impact. Long hours, extended periods of isolation, irregular sleep patterns, and the demanding nature of the job contribute to the unique challenges faced by truck drivers, making them susceptible to mental health issues, particularly depression. This literature review aims to explore the existing research on depression among truck drivers, highlighting key factors, consequences, and potential interventions.

Data on mental health disorders among commercial drivers are sparse, but mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety and mood disorders, were ranked among the lowest of importance as safety issues in a survey of US carrier safety managers [6].

Depression among truck drivers in India

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the mental health of truck drivers in India, given the unique challenges they face in their occupation.

Occupational challenges

Truck drivers in India operate in a demanding and stressful environment. Long hours of continuous driving, unpredictable road conditions, and exposure to extreme weather conditions contribute to a high-stress work environment. The irregular schedules and extended periods away from home also lead to disruptions in sleep patterns, social isolation, and strained family relationships [7].

Socioeconomic factors

The socioeconomic status of truck drivers in India is often precarious, with low wages, job insecurity, and limited access to healthcare facilities. Economic instability may contribute to heightened stress and anxiety, further exacerbating the risk of depression among this population.

Substance abuse

Substance abuse, particularly alcohol and stimulant use, is a prevalent issue among truck drivers in India. The use of these substances is often a coping mechanism for the stress and fatigue associated with long-haul driving. Substance abuse not only contributes to the development of depression but also poses additional risks on the road. [8].

Limited access to mental health services

Truck drivers in India often face challenges in accessing mental health services due to the transient nature of their work. Limited awareness, social stigma, and the lack of mental health resources along highways contribute to the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of depression in this population [9].

This section aims to provide a broad overview of depression, drawing on key references that explore its prevalence, contributing factors, and the diverse strategies for prevention and treatment.

Aspects of depression

Persistent of sadness or low mood and Loss of interest or pleasure: Individuals experiencing depression often feel sad, empty, or down most of the time. This low mood is not necessarily related to a specific event and may persist for weeks or months.

Anhedonia, or the inability to experience pleasure from activities that were once enjoyable, is a common symptom of depression. Hobbies, social interactions, and other activities may no longer bring satisfaction.

Consequences of depression

Depression can lead to significant changes in various aspects of life, including alterations in sleep patterns and appetite or weight. Individuals often experience persistent fatigue and low energy levels, coupled with difficulty concentrating on tasks. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt are common, which can severely impact self-esteem and daily functioning. Additionally, depression can cause noticeable changes in movement, such as restlessness or slowed physical activities. In severe cases, individuals may have suicidal thoughts, highlighting the critical need for effective mental health interventions (Fig. 1).