Could The Mining Industry Do More For Employee Mental Wellbeing
- Brainz Magazine
- Aug 7, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 13
Written by: Craig Fearn, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
The mining industry is a vital part of the global economy. It is also one that can be extremely hazardous to the mental health of its workers. The industry is renowned for working conditions that can be gruelling. Read on to learn how workplace change could focus more on the important issue of employee mental well-being, while also increasing productivity and improving the work environment, raising workforce moral and lowering potential health and safety risks.
Is the mining industry doing enough for the mental health and well-being of its workforce?
This is a question that has been asked by many in recent years, as the state of miner mental health and well-being has come into sharp focus. There are many challenges when it comes to improving the mental health and well-being of miners, but with the right solutions in place, much can be done.
In this article, Craig takes a closer look at the state of miner mental health and wellbeing worldwide, and explores some of the causes and challenges that need to be addressed.
What are the current mental health problems in the mining workplace?
Mining workers are faced with a unique set of mental health problems. They often work in isolated areas, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. They're also constantly faced with the risk of injury or death, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. And on top of all that, it's a working environment that often requires people to keep their emotions in check, which often leads to bottled-up frustration and resentment.
All of these factors can combine to create a perfect storm for mental health problems. Mining workers are at a high risk for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and even suicide.
What are the causes of poor mental health in the mining industry?
The mining industry is a challenging and demanding environment to work in. Not only is the work physically demanding, but it can also be emotionally and mentally draining.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to poor mental health in the mining industry. These include: long hours, shift work, isolation, high-risk work, financial stress, and family problems.
Many miners feel like they don't have a support network outside of work. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The mine can also be a very stressful place to work, with risk of injury or death always present. Financial stress is also common, as miners often have to travel long distances to their jobs and live in remote areas.
What are the challenges that come with improving mental well-being in this sector?
Mining is an industry that is fraught with danger and stress. The risks of working in a mine are high, and although this is a willing career choice, the potential impact of living with such high-stress levels cannot be overlooked.
But there are many challenges that come with trying to improve the mental well-being of miners. One of the biggest challenges is that this is an industry where many of the workforce are reluctant to admit when they need help to maintain mental well-being equilibrium.
Another challenge is that many mining companies don't see mental health as a priority. Far too often mental wellbeing is seen as personal responsibility, not the responsibility of organisations or their managers to provide support for worker mental health.
It can also be difficult to provide support for mental health in a mining environment. The working conditions are often difficult and hazardous, with strict working hours and defined output targets. There is little time for downtime or slack-time in the working day where casual conversations might be made. And there is a lack of resources available to help miners deal understand how the working environment may impact their mental health and how to spot early warning signs.
How can we reduce the risk of mental ill-health in miners?
The mining industry is well known for being a high-pressure environment. If you're not careful, it's easy to get caught up in a never-ending cycle of working long hours, being away from family and friends, and feeling the pressure of meeting targets.
It's no secret that the mining industry has a bit of a macho culture. There's a lot of pressure to be tough and stoic, and to just suck it up when things get tough. But the reality is that this approach isn't healthy for anyone.
So how can we reduce the risk of mental ill-health in miners?
For starters, it's important to create a culture where it's okay to talk about your feelings and seek help when needed. This means normalsing mental health conversations and de-stigmatising mental illness.
It's also crucial to provide support services that are easily accessible and confidential. These services should be designed to meet the specific needs of miners and their families.
Finally, it's important to educate miners on how to recognise the early signs of mental ill-health and what to do if they're experiencing difficulties.
Are there any legal requirements for miners’ well-being?
In Australia, the national Mine Safety and Health Act of 1999 requires that mine operators take all reasonably practicable measures to ensure the health and safety of workers. And while this includes physical safety, there is no specific mention of mental health.
That said, the Australian Government’s National Health and Safety Framework does recognise that mental health is a significant issue in the mining industry and has released a set of guidelines for mine operators to follow.
The Guidelines for a psychologically healthy workplace acknowledge that there are a number of psychological risks associated with working in the mining industry, including long hours, shift work, isolation, and exposure to hazardous materials. The Guidelines also provide advice on how to identify and manage these risks in order to create a more mentally healthy workplace.
So while there are no specific legal requirements regarding miners’ mental health and well-being, there are guidelines in place that mine operators are expected to follow.
Mining is a tough industry to work in, with long hours that are often dangerous, dirty and monotonous and experienced in isolation.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the issue of mental health in the mining industry, and this is an industry that may be resistant to change, normalising conversations about mental health and well-being is a very good place to start.
Book a call with Craig and learn more about implementing a sustainable well-being policy in your organisation.
Craig Fearn, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Craig Fearn is a seasoned wellbeing expert with a demonstrated history of enhancing organizational success through strategic initiatives, innovative problem-solving, and exceptional leadership. Currently, he holds multiple roles as a Wellbeing Advisor at Cornish Lithium Limited and Global Switch, Chief Advisor at Book of Beasties, and Wellbeing Ambassador at The Institute of Directors. He also serves as a Mental Wellbeing Advisor at Edrington UK, providing mental wellbeing support to bar staff nationally. His expertise spans across wellbeing strategy development, organizational change management, workplace wellness program management, and team building. Craig's global perspective, gained from extensive collaboration with international clients, allows him to develop wellbeing strategies that resonate with diverse cultures, contributing to a harmonious and effective work environment.
