Studies Show Long Commutes Can Affect Stress Levels
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - As more and more people extend their job searches, they may also be extending their commutes to work. But is a long commute impacting your health?
According to an IBM commuter pain study, over half of those polled indicated the stress of traffic caused them anger and sleep problems. A 2004 study from the International Stress Management Association even indicated some commuters experience stress levels comparable to fighter pilots or riot police officers. KYW Newsradio asked commuters what causes all that stress.
"Just traffic everywhere you go these days. It's slowed up and taking twice as long to get places than it should be, you know?"
Kuznits: "How does it affect your stress level?"
"Uh, driving is stressful!"
Kuznits: "What's the most stressful part of your commute?"
"Dealing with drivers who are not aware of the laws of the road."
Kuznits: "Nobody knows how to drive?"
"No. Not at all."
Some folks say problems arise from a lack of control over the situation.
"If something's running late, if the trolley's running late, it gets stressful."
Kuznits: "Because there's nothing you can do about it?"
"No. You're stuck!"
How do you take your mind off your commute?
"If you're taking the train, bring something to read or (listen to) some music."
Reported by Hadas Huznits, KYW Newsradio 1060
