Lost 25 y/o tow truck driver

I’m a young tow truck driver, and I kinda hate the job but it’s the only job i’ve ever had and i’m tired of driving trucks. I had a co worker he was hit a and killed at my 2nd company, and that really affected me. It made me look at life differently. The job just makes me even more depressed. Last year, I was risking my life for $500-600 a week, on call 24/7. I got hired to a bigger company making more, but got fired. Been sorta unemployed for months, my depression got worse 🫤.

I recently went back to my 1st company (way smaller company btw), but my truck broke down within 2 days. Also, my dad was arrested my VERY first day at work. I had to leave early to bail him out. Imm taking these two inconveniences as a sign to stop towing.

Need advice on a job I could use my towing experience with. I also have a CDL-A, but zero experience with it. Soon as I got it, I started doing non cdl driving. People keep telling me I should start driving over the road, but I know I would hate it. I’d go crazy being trapped in a damn truck for weeks. My depression/anxiety wont allow me. I want to find another non cdl job. Something less stressful/dangerous . Somewhere I could use the tow truck driving experience with, but no luck. Idk if I want to even drive trucks anymore, idk what to do man. I’m in a very weird and dark point in my life right now. Nothing feels right. Idk what to do. I live with my toxic parents, ( mother is mentally ill/ and my father is just angry and bitter). I can go on and on about my issues. This isnt the sub for that, if you want you can see my past posts to get a better understanding. I’m so lost right now.

Jobadvisor:

Man, it sounds like you're carrying a really heavy load right now, and, understandably, you're feeling lost and down. Losing your coworker like that is a traumatic experience, and it's no wonder it's changed how you see things. Add to that the unstable job situation, your dad's arrest, and the difficult home environment – that's a lot for anyone to handle. It's okay to feel like nothing is right at the moment.

It's good that you're recognizing that towing isn't working for you anymore, especially with the added stress and danger. It takes courage to admit that and want to make a change. Let's brainstorm some ideas for jobs where your towing experience might actually be an asset, even if you don't want to be behind the wheel of a tow truck.

Here are a few thoughts that come to mind, keeping in mind you want something less stressful and dangerous, and non-CDL for now:

• Dispatching or Operations for a Towing Company: You have firsthand experience with the day-to-day of towing, understanding the urgency, the locations, and the types of calls. This insider knowledge could make you a valuable asset in dispatch, coordinating drivers, and managing operations. It's still within the industry, so your experience is directly relevant, but you'd be in an office setting.
• Equipment or Parts Sales for Tow Trucks or Automotive Suppliers: Your experience using tow trucks means you understand the equipment, the wear and tear, and what drivers need. This practical knowledge could be a huge advantage in sales, helping customers find the right tools and parts.
• Insurance Adjuster (Specializing in Vehicle Claims): Your background in towing gives you a unique perspective on vehicle accidents and damage. Insurance companies often need adjusters who can assess vehicle damage, and your experience could be valuable, especially for complex towing and recovery situations. This might require some additional training or certification, but it's a different path that utilizes your understanding of vehicles and accidents.
• Fleet Maintenance or Management (Non-CDL Vehicles): While your CDL-A is unused, your experience with vehicle upkeep on your tow trucks could translate to managing maintenance for fleets of smaller, non-CDL vehicles for various companies. This could involve scheduling repairs, managing service records, and ensuring vehicles are in good working order.
• Working for an Auto Auction or Salvage Yard: Your familiarity with vehicles, especially damaged ones, could be useful in these environments. You might be involved in assessing vehicle condition, moving vehicles around the yard (often with smaller equipment), or handling paperwork.

Understandably, you're hesitant about over-the-road trucking, especially with your anxiety. Trust your gut on that. Forcing yourself into a situation you know you'll dislike will likely only worsen how you're feeling.

Since you mentioned your living situation is also contributing to your stress, have you considered looking into resources that might help with that? Even small steps towards a more stable and supportive living environment could make a difference in your overall well-being.

This is a tough time, and it's okay to not have all the answers right now. Focus on taking small steps. Maybe start by researching one or two of these job ideas that pique your interest. Look at job postings in your area and see what the requirements are.

Remember, your experience as a tow truck driver, even though it's been difficult, has given you valuable skills and knowledge. Don't discount that. You're resilient – you've been through a lot and you're still looking for a way forward. That says a lot about your strength.

Take things one day at a time. It's okay to not be okay right now. Just keep exploring possibilities, and don't be afraid to reach out for support if you need it. Some people care and want to help you find a better path.