The UK’s van drivers are at risk of burnout, with half experiencing mental health issues in the last year.
A new study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles found that overworking and struggling to maintain a work-life balance were the biggest causes, with side effects including sleep problems, stress headaches and panic attacks.
The stress is the result of van drivers working beyond their regular hours half of the time, compared to the average UK worker who clocks longer hours a third of the time.
One in five van drivers say they now feel overwhelmed by work on a daily basis, while 94% have felt this in the past 12 months.
Positively, three-quarters of those who suffered issues had sought professional support to help them cope.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is urging the UK workforce to take time out and practise wellbeing to manage mental health – either by taking up a new hobby, exercising, talking to friends or getting outside.
Last year, the manufacturer launched its #DownTools campaign to raise awareness of the risks of burnout and, as part of a continued partnership with Mental Health UK, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is supporting its customers to shut up shop, put down the hammer, and close the laptop at the end of the working day.
Kate Thompson, head of marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, commented: “Mental health in the workplace is an incredibly important topic, and one we’re proud to continue exploring, with the aim of normalising discussions and promoting best practice.
“Our research over the years has really cast a light on the prevalence of mental health issues within the workplace and particularly with men and small business owners, and the difficulties of establishing an effective balance. So, we hope that by raising awareness, we will encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing and provide the resources to regain a productive work-life balance.”
For more information and support on how to look after your mental health, visit: https://mentalhealth-uk.org/volkswagen-commercial-vehicles/
