What’s Really Going On Behind the Windscreen

Professional driving is tough. But when we focus on HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers and PSV (Public Service Vehicle) drivers, the strain hits harder than most people realise.

• Truck drivers face long-distance hauls, unpredictable hours, night shifts, tight delivery deadlines, and days away from home. You’re sleeping in a layby, eating cold meals from service stations, and spending hour after hour alone in the cab. That isolation and constant grind takes its toll mentally and emotionally.
• Bus and coach drivers deal with constant public interaction, abusive passengers, traffic stress, and strict timetables — all while staying focused and alert.

Mental Health by the Numbers

• Over a third of HGV drivers show signs of poor mental health — but most never seek help.
• Long hours, poor sleep, isolation, and a lack of support are major contributing factors.
• Male-dominated industries like transport are still plagued by stigma around talking about mental health.

A Driver’s Story: Gareth’s Journey Through the Darkness

“My name is Gareth Wildman, founder of Transcom National Training, and a former Class 1 HGV driver with over 20 years on the road.”

When I first started, I loved the job. But the last 10 years were a different story. I dreaded work. I moved from company to company, hoping for change, but it never came. I felt like just a number, constantly under pressure.

People don’t see the behind-the-scenes stress — failed vehicle checks, constant delays, unrealistic expectations, poor facilities, and the feeling that you’re barely tolerated by the places you deliver to.

Eventually, I fell into a deep depression. I was angry, tired, and hopeless — but I hid it well. Friends saw the cheeky, happy Gareth. My partner saw the truth. I didn’t know how to explain what I was feeling — and I didn’t think it was a mental health issue. I thought I just needed time to “sort my head out.”

It got worse. I didn’t know where to turn. Eventually, I booked an appointment with my GP. I wasn’t even sure if that was the right place. But it was. He reassured me that I’d done the right thing. He referred me for counselling — and that’s where the real change started.

Over time, I got tools to process what I was feeling. I started to feel hope again. I saw the positives. The dark fog began to lift. It took courage to admit I needed help, but I can honestly say it was the best decision I ever made.

If you’re a driver and my story feels familiar — you’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep carrying the weight by yourself.

Where to Get Help: Mental Health Support for Drivers

If you’re struggling, there is help out there. These services are confidential and free:

• NHS Mental Health Services – Call 111 and select the mental health option (available 24/7)
• Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7, confidential)
• CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight) or use the live chat
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463
• Transport for London Employee Assistance – Speak to your HR rep for access to counselling and support services (for TfL-linked drivers)
• Your GP – A trusted starting point. Be honest. They can refer you to the right support.

Final Words: The Road Ahead

To every truck, bus, and coach driver reading this: you matter. You keep the country running — but that doesn’t mean you have to carry everything else on your own.

This Men’s Mental Health Week, let’s stop the silence. Let’s support each other. Let’s make sure no driver feels they have to suffer in isolation.

Asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s the most important shift you’ll ever make.