12 Washington Street
Lynn, MA 01904-3306

Date: 02/01/2015

Dear Professional Driver,

One important attribute of being a professional driver is how that driver handles stress. I believe we can all agree that stress is an everyday fact of live caused by the nature of our business, personal issues outside of your employment with J&S Transport and other non-work related issues. Too much stress, and the length of time under that stress, can be harmful to the driver. Unmanaged stress for the professional driver can lead to illness, injury, low productivity and unsafe acts.

Some stress is beneficial. Stress drives our motivation for self-improvement and achievement of desired goals without harmful side effects. When this “good” stress combines with “bad” stress and becomes unmanageable; problems develop. You can manage stress and make it a more positive force in your life when you are able to identify your stresses, understand them, and take charge of your stress by relieving or preventing it. Using drugs or alcohol may relieve the edge of your stress but will not help you to manage that stress. In some cases, drugs and alcohol will only add to your stress.

To manage your stress you can:

➢    Accept it – Some things are out of your control and all you can do is accept them and learn from them. Seek helpful advice or support from friends and coworkers.
➢    Avoid it – Stay away from recurring situations or sources of constant frustration. Remove yourself from the situation or rearrange your surroundings. For time related stress, plan ahead.
➢    Alter it – Communicate your feelings to your employer or supervisor. Change your feelings or ask for help with your job or seek out Employee Assistance Programs.
➢    Adapt to it – Learn to cope with the situation or look at it as a personal improvement opportunity. Focus on the positive things in your life. Make time for activities you enjoy. Maintain a healthy lifestyle including exercise and a balanced diet.

It is very important for professional drivers to recognize stress in their job, situations and in themselves before accidents, injuries, or violent incidents occur.

Be Safe!

Steve