Beating Addiction as a Trucker

trucker beat addictionProfessional truck drivers who are struggling with addiction need to be aware of ways of conquering addiction that are particularly suited to them. Professional truck drivers hold challenging work positions, full of reward but also full of hardship. Their jobs call for a great deal of physical and mental strength that not everyone can put forward. Many truck drivers struggle with addiction due to professional stress which makes them a danger to themselves and to other drivers. It is very important that any professional truck driver who is struggling with addiction realizes the value of recovery and works toward it, however they have to.

Inpatient treatment refers to residential rehabilitation, the form of treatment that involves living on site in a treatment facility for 30, 60 or 90 days. Inpatient treatment is known as the most effective way of treating addiction problems and is intended for advanced cases of addiction. Most truck driving professionals take a leave of absence from their work in order to submit to inpatient treatment.

Outpatient treatment is similar to counseling, but is more intensive. The counseling sessions, exercises, readings and therapeutic activities are more frequent and thorough than in counseling, and the duration of time they continue for is set to a schedule. Outpatient rehab programs that are tailored to trade workers will frequently work around the individual’s work schedule to arrange for treatment.

Counseling is great for those who’s addictions are less severe, but are strong enough to require professional help. If you are a truck driver who is used to doing things for yourself but are becoming aware of the need for help with addiction, counseling is great place to start because it is a minimal commitment.

Support groups are effective for those who are struggling with addiction but who have not lost total control and want to try recovering in a more independent way. Support groups meet sporadically, so a trucker is able to maintain their work schedule and still appear for meetings. The concept of a support group is to have others who understand your struggles encourage you through your personal addiction challenges.