Driving with PTSD/Depression

Discussion in 'Driver Health' started by md096, Jun 17, 2010.

  1. Jun 17, 2010 #1
    md096

    md096 Bobtail Member

    6
    1
    Jun 15, 2010
    0
    Hello all,

    I am medically retiring from the Army soon after 13 years. I am an Iraq veteran, and my principal reason for being retired is PTSD with depression.

    I am on some medications, all of which I "can" be qualified to drive with, as I am stable on them and compliant with them with no side effects that "alter my consciousness". I have searched this one out, and specifically found the answers regarding the medications I am on. With the input from my prescribing doctor that these should not effect my ability to drive a CMV, my understanding is that I should not be disqualified.

    I have been doing well for months, but one of the biggest aspects of PTSD that affects a "normal" life is the social impairment it causes. Bottom line, I am better off when I am alone, and I am longing for a job that will allow me alot of time to keep to myself while still providing an outlet to keep busy and feel like I am accomplishing something.

    My questions are these:
    1. Should even seek to be a driver? Broad question, I know. What I mean is, is the work so stressful that I shouldn't try to mix it with dealing with an illness. Understand that money and family problems are not an issue as I do not have a family, and my retirement and disability will probably be enough to live on alone. I just can't sit around the house is all. It's hard to just stop after 13 years of going.

    2. How do I handle disclosing my illness to prospective companies? I know I am going to have to be honest about it on my DOT physical, but is that between me and the examiner or is its contents public knowledge?

    3. I know some companies allow dogs. Is this pretty commonplace or no? I have a service dog that was prescribed to me while I was at the Army's hospital in DC. More than anything, she is just a companion, I don't need her for any special assistance, but it would be nice to have her around. Also, thoughts on driving with a pet from those who do would be appreciated.

    Sorry if this was too long to read. I look forward to responses, and appreciate the time of those who do.
     
    md096, Jun 17, 2010
    md096, Jun 17, 2010
    #1
  2. Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.

  3. Jun 17, 2010 #2
    sammycat

    sammycat "Oldest Hijackerette"

    3,150
    4,438
    Apr 11, 2010
    Rochester, NY
    0
    Hi mdo96- Welcome to TTR! I see that is your first post. Hopefully you should get some answers soon to your questions- as this time of day drivers are out rolling already.
    You may want to go to the Welcome thread and put a quick hello post up there too. This is a great site for information-if you have time-go thru the threads there is also a good search function for the site. It's also alot of fun and it you are considering getting your CDL there are many posts/threads from newbie and wannabees that may answer some questions too.
    I wish I could answer your questions above-but I don't know those specific answers.
    Again Welcome!!!!
     
    sammycat, Jun 17, 2010
    sammycat, Jun 17, 2010
    #2
  4. Jun 17, 2010 #3
    Baack

    Baack Road Train Member

    15,294
    10,174
    May 24, 2007
    Wisconsin
    0
    Baack, Jun 17, 2010
    Baack, Jun 17, 2010
    #3
  5. Jun 17, 2010 #4
    jtrnr1951

    jtrnr1951 Road Train Member

    3,466
    1,249
    Jul 20, 2009
    Standing in the corner, timed out
    0
    Thank You very much for your service !!!

    In reference to PTSD............

    Yes you can drive with it, however each case IS different.

    The VA should be able to answer your question.

    There are many drivers with PTSD, some do NOT even know they have it........

    Good Luck !!!!!
     
    jtrnr1951, Jun 17, 2010
    jtrnr1951, Jun 17, 2010
    #4
  7. Jun 17, 2010 #5
    OpenRoadGuy

    OpenRoadGuy Light Load Member

    286
    673
    Jun 2, 2010
    East Stroudsburg, PA
    0
    First of all, thank you for the service you have provided to this country, and for sound a long period of time. The amount of time you have spent in Iraq is incredible, and I couldn't equal that commitment and dedication should I have pursued the opportunity to join the military myself.

    It's really crappy that you come back to this country seeking a job with so many extra challenges to face. It really sucks!

    Since you've been in Iraq for so long, I can't see how you wouldn't have PTSD and depression, you are a part of the human condition. Your question needs to be individual. I would suggest you see a Psychiatrist, and have them read your file and ask their opinion.

    Speaking generally, I don't like the idea of somebody with depression and PTSD getting behind the wheel of a truck. But I only have the option of speaking generally. That doesn't mean *you* shouldn't pursue a career in trucking. Seek some expert advice and ask the same questions. I'm sure you'll be surprised by the answer you get.
     
    OpenRoadGuy, Jun 17, 2010
    OpenRoadGuy, Jun 17, 2010
    #5
  • Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.