The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is encouraging drivers to make their physical and mental wellbeing a priority ahead of Men’s Health Week, using a new podcast episode to highlight the health challenges faced by many in the transport industry.
In the latest episode of the NHVR’s What’s Your 20? podcast, veteran truck driver Damien Black speaks openly about his struggles with both physical and mental health and the difficulties of making lasting lifestyle changes while working on the road.
The episode, released in the lead-up to Men’s Health Week, examines the pressures heavy vehicle drivers often face, including long hours, disrupted sleep, social isolation and limited access to healthy food options.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said the discussion was particularly relevant given the demographics of the industry.
“We know that 98 per cent of truck drivers are male and data shows men have a shorter life expectancy than women and die more often from preventable causes,” Mr Salvati said.
“Working as a truck driver presents unique challenges to physical and mental health. Factors like disrupted sleep schedules, isolation from family and friends, and limited access to healthy food choices all take a toll.
“We hope all men working in the heavy vehicle industry get something out of listening to Damien’s first-hand account of how he hit rock bottom with his health and managed to turn things around.”
Black’s story charts a dramatic personal transformation. At what he describes as his lowest point, he weighed 116 kilograms, was struggling with his mental health and could not see a clear path forward.
Years later, he is competing in Ironman events and sharing health and cooking advice through social media, hoping to encourage other truck drivers to take small but meaningful steps towards better wellbeing.
Black acknowledged the process was far from straightforward.
“Unfortunately, I yoyoed in my health and I’d lose weight, put it on and I’d pretty much fallen off the wagon just prior to being 40,” he said.
“I hated waking up every day the way I was but at the time I couldn’t find my way out. But I did find my way out and I’ve never looked back.”
The podcast also features hosts Sarah and Rob discussing common issues affecting drivers, including poor diet, lack of exercise, financial pressures and job insecurity. Alongside their personal experiences, they share practical strategies aimed at helping workers make gradual and sustainable improvements to their health.
While acknowledging the barriers many people face, Black said recognising a problem is often the starting point for change.
“Never give up trying to improve every day. Something is better than nothing always. Do something consistently and if that doesn’t stick try something else,” he said.
The NHVR said it continues to provide resources to help transport businesses support the physical and mental wellbeing of their workers. Industry organisations and employees can also access support through Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds, the Australian Men’s Health Forum, Men’s Health Week initiatives and Medicare Mental Health services.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for immediate support.
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