Bus Employee Wellbeing: Mental Health Matters Working as a bus driver can be very demanding. Every day
you are faced with different challenges which can impact both your physical and
mental health, therefore it is essential you get the correct support.
Here at the Bus
Employees Friendly Society , we care about your wellbeing. In
times of sickness and retirement, we offer our support. This month’s blog looks
at the available mental health support for bus drivers who are struggling.
The Importance of Workplace Wellbeing Workplace wellbeing is essential in any setting. At least 1
in 6 employees experience mental health problems such as depression and
anxiety. Promoting positive wellbeing can create a positive work environment.
Furthermore, it helps both individuals and organisations thrive.
We understand that you may be worried about confronting the
subject of mental health. However, we are here to listen and find the
appropriate help for your circumstances.
How Does it Affect Bus Drivers? Several studies have been carried out on the health and
wellbeing of bus drivers and they show that the job has very high, conflicting demands.
While required to be service-oriented, a bus driver must also work against a
timescale. Another demand is to drive safely and according to regulations and
weather conditions.
In addition to this, it is not uncommon for transport
personnel to suffer from violence and threats from disorderly passengers. Being
a bus driver is a rewarding yet high-risk occupation.
There are many factors that come into play and they can lead
to both physical and mental issues such as:
Fatigue Mental Overload High Blood Pressure Sleeping Problems Anxiety Musculo-skeletal Problems
Available Support Firstly, we at the Bus Employees Friendly Society are
available to discuss your problems. We have access to several support networks.
Below are just some of the many useful mental health support
contacts:
Mind Mental health organisation Mind
have an information helpline to answer questions about:
Types of mental health issues Where to get help Advocacy
Call 030 123 3393 or email [email protected] .
Samaritans The Samaritans
offer FREE 24/7 emotional support in confidence.
Call 116 123 [email protected] .
Rethink Mental Illness Rethink are
available to call Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4pm for confidential advice and
information on:
Access to mental health and social care Treatments and conditions Advocacy Your rights under the Mental Health Act
Call 0808
801 0525
Please Note: If you are concerned that you are suffering
from mental health problems, you should contact your GP promptly.
Contact Us For advice or information about how we can help you, contact
the Bus Employees Friendly Society. Call us in Reigate on 01737 226 060 or fill out our online contact form .
We are here to listen, and you are not alone. We want
to support you to get back to work.
