This content is sponsored by J&R Schugel
J&R Schugel has partnered with Fuel Graphics co. for the third year in a row to design a custom wrap highlighting and raising awareness on social issues. We debuted the new truck a couple of months ago, choosing Mental Health as the issue of the year. We asked drivers to submit a small note, along with their desire to be seated in the new truck, detailing their experiences with Mental Health Issues. The response was overwhelming, heartbreaking, but also hopeful. J&R Schugel’s executive and marketing teams would like to thank all the drivers who submitted such heartfelt and powerful testimonials.
“We are living in unprecedented times and many are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming and emotionally draining” says, Dan Denhof President/CEO. J&R Schugel chose to wrap a truck surrounding a topic that has had an impact on so many individuals and their families.
“This is our third truck wrap and it was inspired by the unique times we have all experienced over the last year and most importantly brought the topic of mental health awareness to all of us at Schugel. At J&R Schugel Trucking, our employees want to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues and help reduce the stigma that may be associated with seeking help,” Denhof adds.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, research shows that mental illnesses are common in the United States, affecting tens of millions of people each year and these numbers have only grown due to the COVID19 pandemic. As of 2019, John Hopkins’ University researchers estimate that as many as 26% of Americans will suffer from some sort of mental illness in their lifetime. Note that this was before the COVID-19 Pandemic, and many who were not used to isolation and lack of socialization are struggling even more today. For us in the Trucking Industry the statistics are even more staggering. Numerous articles have been written on the subject, as OTR and Long Haul Truckers are subject to some very harsh conditions, long periods of isolation and loneliness, and have very limited access to resources to help. John Hopkins’ Magazine wrote an article on the subject in Fall of 2019.
It is our pleasure to announce Shawn McDermott as the driver chosen to seat the Mental Health Awareness Truck. Sean has been with J&R Schugel for ~4 years. You can hear more of his story in the video above.
J&R Schugel stands with our drivers and the drivers across the country in our commitment to ending the stigma around seeking help for Mental Health issues. If you’re feeling isolated and alone, finding someone to simply talk to can be helpful. Some resources in combating mental health issues include; the National Suicided Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 as well as SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) 1-800-662-HELP (4357), Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting NAMI to 741-741 or The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233. Remember, you are not alone.
This content is sponsored by J&R Schugel
