Thanks to increasing awareness of substance use disorders and the recognition of how they can impact those in the transportation industry, truck drivers now have access to a growing number of addiction treatment programs. From specialized support groups to professional rehab centers, truckers have the opportunity to receive quality addiction treatment and kick off a journey of recovery.
About the Addiction Problem
The opioid crisis is having a profound impact on America, and truckers are among its victims. Indeed, recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that truck drivers are twice as likely as the general population to be prescribed opioids. The Mental Health and Substance Abuse Emergency Response Act of 2017 even acknowledged the importance of addressing this problem.
Fortunately, the logistical demands of the job don’t have to be a barrier to getting treatment; on the contrary, there are now different types of programs that can help truckers beat addiction.
Recreational and Specialized Support Groups
Commercial drivers and their families have access to supportive groups which provide resources, advice, and emotional support. Such groups can help individuals develop healthier lifestyles, break free from addiction, and benefit from peer support during the recovery process. Meetings are typically organized by truckers for truckers, and attendance is confidential and free of charge.
Truckers can also join specialized support programs, such as the Physical and Mental Fitness Trucking Alliance (PAFTA), which offers resources and guidance on how to avoid and address dangerous behaviors while on the road. Additionally, by joining these organizations, truck drivers can strengthen their community and have access to resources such as addiction-focused therapy, job placement assistance, career counseling, and more.
Inpatient Rehab Facilities
In some cases, addiction may be so advanced that an inpatient rehab program is the only way to start the recovery process. However, as most commercial vehicle drivers are unwilling to leave their trucks, an appropriate facility must be located close to the trucker’s current route.
Luckily, there are rehab centers strategically located close to major freight hubs where truckers can get the medical attention and therapeutic support they need. These facilities offer clinicians who are specialized in substance use disorders, and they often cater to truckers and other transportation industry members.
At such centers, individuals can benefit from evidence-based treatments, including medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and more. In addition, on-site counseling, group activities, and medical support are typically available.
Outpatient Programs
For those who don’t have the time or resources for inpatient rehab, outpatient programs are as effective and can be tailored to fit a trucker’s lifestyle. Such programs require individuals to travel to an office for addiction treatment sessions. They often involve behavior modification, counseling, and sometimes medication for opioid dependence.
Also, like inpatient facilities, these outpatient services provide total privacy, discreet transportation, and flexible scheduling. As such, they are perfect for those who do not have the option of leaving their vehicle behind.
Final Thoughts
Truckers everywhere can now get access to addiction treatment thanks to increasing availability of specialized programs. From recreational and supportive groups to professional rehab centers being conveniently located near major trucking hubs, the process of getting clean is now open to all citizens of the transportation industry. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, we encourage you to seek help as soon as possible. Remember, there is no shame in asking for help as you are not alone in your journey to recovery.