Pub. 1 2020 Issue 1

Kentucky Trucker 11 KyTrucking.net Truckers experience warning signs and often try to deal with the problems by trying things that actually make the situation worse. Too often, they take drugs such as marijuana or crack, drink too much alcohol, and pay for sex. Unfortunately, these are destructive choices, but they can seem like easier ways to deal than figuring out how to eat healthier food or where to park the truck so you can see a physician. Federal regulations mandate that truckers have a maxi- mum of 70 hours on the road, and that they have to get 34 hours off before they begin work for the next week. They can’t drive more than 11 hours per day, and they have to take a 30-minute break within the first eight hours. A yearly physical is part of the job requirement, too. What are the main symptoms for depression? • Abuse of drugs or alcohol • Difficulty with concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details • Eating too much or not feeling hungry • Feeling guilty, hopeless, lethargic, pessimistic, tired, or worthless continued on page 12 • Frequently feeling sad or anxious • Having low energy levels • Lack of focus or motivation • Pain, muscle tension, and headaches • Restlessness or irritability • Sleep problems such as insomnia, being off a regular sleep cycle, or sleeping too much • Social withdrawal • Suicidal thoughts or acts What can truckers do to stay healthy? Making choices that will improve their quality of life are a logical first step. The following section lists some suggestions. Build or Maintain a Community Being able to talk to other people is important. If that conversation includes talking about problems or challenges, so much the better, but even being able to talk about little things can go a long way toward feeling connected with other people.