Occupational and Psychosocial Risk Factors for Depression Among Truck Drivers: A Systematic Review

Depression among professional truck drivers may be driven by isolation, irregular schedules, and high job demands. This systematic review identified occupational and psychosocial risk factors for depression in adult truck, heavy goods vehicle (HGV), or lorry drivers. PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase were searched for observational studies assessing work or psychosocial exposures and depression via validated measures or clinical diagnosis. Screening was conducted in duplicate; data extraction was verified by a second reviewer; risk of bias was assessed using the JBI cross-sectional checklist. Because heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis, we used direction-of-effect vote counting. Seven cross-sectional studies (n = 1,591) from six countries were included; reported prevalence ranged from 13.6% to 59.1%. Consistent positive associations were found for high work demands (longer hours, tight deadlines), safety hazards in driving conditions (e.g., poor roads, accident history, distraction), and lock of occupational support (job dissatisfaction, limited supervisor support, wage-earning vs. self-employment). Psychosocial isolation (loneliness, low engagement) showed strong links to depressive symptoms. Poor sleep quality and stimulant use were associated with higher risks, while better self-rated health was protective; evidence for age and substance use was mixed. Findings highlight modifiable work and social conditions and the need for longitudinal and interventional research.