Driving is not just about going from point A to point B. Vehicles bring communities together and give everyone a sense of independence to go out and explore the world.
A sense of being independent, being close to nature, meeting our family and making new friends: driving provides many more mental health benefits than you might consider.
In this article, let’s see what impact your driving licence has on your well-being and let our thorough research reveal which drives you found more enjoyable, ways driving improve your life and your favourite travel stories of all time.
1. Trust the Journey, Not the Destinations
We know it’s important to get somewhere fast. But overwhelmingly, scenic roads with the most direct route are preferable for drivers to rural driving on the dull grey of motorways.
As we all know, being in nature significantly impacts our mental health. Infact, experiencing the great outdoors through your windscreen, such as appreciating the beauty or just viewing, can also positively affect your well-being. It’s even better when the weather is warm so you can open your windows enough to let the fresh air in as the countryside smells are pure and improved in quality.
It’s not just about the stunning views but also the act of enjoying the drive in rural areas is far more satisfactory than sitting for countless hours on end. Your brain stimulates as you adapt to the bends and speeds you rarely find on the motorway in the UK.
So whether you find some green area, farmlands or coastal roads you can surround through, you can add a few extra minutes to your journey time and appreciate the scenic view.
Also Read: Campaign to tackle truck driver mental health
2. Tackling Loneliness
Poor mental health is the fundamental cause of loneliness among individuals. Not so surprising, is it? Therefore, it’s widely said the community – as a sense of togetherness can become a critical factor in channelling happiness in life.
Unreliable and often expensive public transport is not usually a good idea when travelling to see your loved ones. On the other hand, hoping in your private vehicle can be more exciting and often easier to transport your luggage without any stress of losing it.
It’s true quite literally when they say driving can bring people together. It’s also a good possibility that earning to drive means you will visit your friends and loved ones more often. It’s time to plan your trip home.
3. Freedom
Regarding mental health, independence means you can make your own choices and prioritise well-being. Drivers experience poor mental health due to physical or cognitive decline. If not done anything about it, it tends to get worst.
Driving is the key to experiencing freedom and independence. Little things such as choosing when and where to go, be it an old friend after work or going shopping when you be at truck stops, running errands or simply operating at work. Everything is easier when you have access to a vehicle.
You won’t have to rely on anyone or to take permission. The world, as it’s rightly said, is your oyster.
For more information, visit the UK government’s update on Mental health issues in the workplace
