World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th, is a significant day that highlights the importance of mental well-being – but taking care of yourself is something that matters every day.
As a taxi or private hire driver, you’ll know that your work can be both rewarding and demanding, which means it’s vital to look after yourself to promote and maintain good mental health. In this article, we’ll share well-being tips and valuable resources that you can use when you need them most.
Taxi drivers and mental health
According to Taxi Plus’s National Taxi and Private Hire Driver Survey (2024), 25.8% respondents felt that their job negatively affects their mental health, and 54.2% believed that the taxi industry is facing a ‘mental health epidemic’.
Although many taxi and private hire drivers enjoy their job, they often work long, unsociable hours, and regularly encounter stresses such as driving through heavy traffic and dealing with difficult customers. Daily stress combined with other factors – such as keeping up with vehicle maintenance and ensuring your vehicle is covered with appropriate taxi insurance – can all have an impact on a driver’s well-being.
Well-being tips for taxi drivers
To counteract the impact of daily stresses while working on the road, it’s important to take small, practical steps to protect your mental health. Here are some simple steps that taxi drivers can take to improve their mood and reduce stress.
Physical health
Regular exercise, enough sleep, and balanced meals are key to helping you manage stress and stay focused behind the wheel. Even light activity, such as a short walk before or after your shift, can help boost your mood.
Mindfulness and relaxation
Practising mindfulness or breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and clear the mind. Mobile Apps such as CALM and Headspace can be useful, but keep in mind that some may require a paid subscription to access all their features. There are also plenty of free resources for guided meditation and breathing available on platforms such as YouTube.
Talk to someone
It’s not always easy to open up about mental health, but sharing how you’re feeling, whether with friends, family, or other drivers, can make a big difference.
Free mental health resources
While self-care and daily routines play a crucial role in maintaining good mental health, it’s also essential to know where to turn for extra support when needed.
The theme for World Mental Health Day this year is ‘access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies’. We have compiled a list of free and accessible support services available to taxi drivers and the general public.
This is not an exhaustive list, so it’s also worth exploring what local services are in your area, as there may be support groups, counselling services, or other resources that can offer help and advice.
NHS (UK)
The NHS offers a range of healthcare options and provides medical advice or services for individuals struggling with their mental health.
📞 111 (or call your local GP practice)
Mind (England and Wales)
Mind is one of the leading mental health charities in England and Wales. They provide legal help, online information, and advice to help those struggling with their mental health. They also offer a range of local services including counselling.
📞 0300 123 3993
Samaritans (UK)
The Samaritans is a suicide prevention charity that provides a 24/7 listening service to people in crisis.
📞 116 123
CALM (England, Wales, and Scotland)
Campaign Against Living Miserably is a suicide prevention charity. Their helpline is open from 5pm – midnight.
📞 0800 58 58 58
🌐 https://www.thecalmzone.net/
Shout (England and Wales)
Shout is a free UK text service for mental health support, open 24/7.
📲 Text SHOUT to 85258
Breathing Space (Scotland)
Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web-based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.
Their helpline is open Monday to Thursday from 6pm-2am on weekdays, and Friday 6pm – Monday 6am on the weekend.
📞 0800 83 85 87
🌐 https://www.breathingspace.scot/
SAMH (Scotland)
Scottish Action for Mental Health provides over 60 services, including community-based support, workplace well-being initiatives, suicide prevention programs, and walk-in support hubs.
Their helpline is open 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday.
📞 0344 800 0550
Tartan Talkers (Scotland)
Tartan Talkers is a men’s mental health and suicide prevention charity providing a drop-in centre, peer support, and practical support services.
📞 01383 242 960
🌐 https://www.tartantalkers.scot/
📲 Chat on Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp
Take care
Looking after your mental health matters every day of the year and it’s just as important as maintaining your vehicle or keeping your taxi insurance up to date. Whether it’s taking time to rest, connecting with others, or reaching out for professional help, every small step counts.
