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Some of the most dangerous miles are the ones nobody sees. A veteran truck driver shares the raw, unfiltered story behind his suicide attempt, and why the warning signs are so easy to miss until it’s almost too late.Jerry Curl and John Henson turn this episode of Beyond the Truck into a life-saving conversation about mental health, isolation, and the hidden pressure many drivers carry alone. If you’ve ever said "I’m fine" when you weren’t, or you’ve worried about a driver, spouse, friend, or family member, this is the episode you need right now.
John Henson is a professional driver with 20+ years behind the wheel, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran, father, and husband. In this conversation, he opens up about the slow cascade of events that led to a breaking point in 2022, including loss, addiction in the family, compartmentalized pain, and the crushing silence that kept everyone around him completely in the dark. Jerry brings the urgency, advocacy, and faith-driven call to action, making this more than a story - it’s a wake-up call.You'll discover:
- Why suicide in trucking and in men is so often hidden until the crisis point The warning signs to watch for - hopelessness, isolation, sleep changes, anger, substance use, and withdrawalWhy "high-functioning" depression can fool everyone, including the person living itWhat to do when someone may be at risk: ask directly, listen, avoid judgment, help them stay safe, connect them to 988, and follow up Daily habits that build mental resilience, from genuine connection to sleep, movement, and challenging negative self-talk
Jerry and John also tackle the dangerous myth that thoughts are always truth, the impact of social media comparison, and the reality that many drivers spend long hours alone with nothing but their thoughts, a radio, and a phone. Their message is clear: silence is not strength, and reaching out is not weakness.This is essential listening for professional drivers, veterans, men who were raised to "suck it up," and anyone who wants to know how to recognize the signs before tragedy strikes. Hope is not a slogan here - it’s the difference between losing someone and helping them stay here.If this conversation reaches even one person in the dark, it matters. Listen now, share it with someone you love, and remember: you are made for more. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 immediately.
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email; thrive@beyondthetruck.com