In our 17 years of experience in the mining sector we have witnessed the mining industry grow and change, allowing more and more unique career and growth opportunities, but it is also one of the most demanding sectors to work in. For many mining professionals on FIFO contracts, their daily jobs often mean long hours, extended periods of isolation, and the challenge of being away from family and friends for weeks or even months at a time. At CA Mining, we are committed to understanding the full scope of these challenging experiences to better serve both our candidates and clients. That’s why, our market intelligence division called Insights, has put together a simple but highly valuable survey to gather more information about the mental wellbeing of mining professionals and the impact their work has on their health—particularly those working under FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) contracts or those required to relocate for their roles.
Your participation in this survey will enable us to gain a deeper understanding of how the unique demands of mining affect mental health, ultimately allowing us to offer more tailored and effective recruitment solutions. We want to make a difference, not only by finding the best talent for the job but also by ensuring that the mental health of professionals in the mining industry is prioritized.
The Mental Health Challenges of FIFO
Rotations
The benefits of working in the mining industry are many—competitive salaries, career advancement opportunities, and the chance to work on exciting, large-scale projects. However, the realities of the job are often harsh. For professionals working under FIFO contracts or those who relocate for extended periods, there are many personal sacrifices that come with the role.
A FIFO rotation typically involves flying into a remote site to work for a set number of months, followed by a long break when returning home. While this arrangement allows for concentrated work during operational periods, it also means long stretches of isolation in distant, often inhabited locations. Mining workers are often far from their families and social support networks, which can create feelings of loneliness, isolation, and mental fatigue. Adding to the challenges are the long hours, lack of routine, and pressure to perform at peak capacity during the entire rotation.
Such stressors can take a toll on mental wellbeing, leading to burnout, anxiety, and even depression if not managed effectively. Unfortunately, in many cases, mental health in the mining industry remains a silent struggle, one that we at CA Mining are determined to address through our recruitment solutions and industry insights.
How to Manage Your Mental Health On a
FIFO Rotation
Acknowledging the mental health challenges that come with working FIFO or relocating for a role is the first step to managing them effectively. Below, we’ve outlined several strategies that can help you maintain a healthy mental state while working on rotation.
- Stay Connected with Loved Ones
One of the biggest challenges of FIFO work is the separation from family and friends. Fortunately, technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with loved ones, even from remote locations. Make a habit of setting aside time for regular video calls, texting, or sharing updates about your day. This helps maintain emotional connections and provides a sense of continuity in your personal life. Staying connected to your support system can go a long way toward reducing feelings of isolation.
- Develop a Consistent Routine
While mining rotations can be intense, establishing a consistent routine can help you manage stress and bring structure to your day. Plan your shifts to include regular meal times, designated rest periods, and activities that help you wind down, such as reading, exercising, or listening to music. Building these routines can give you a sense of control in an otherwise unpredictable environment and help mitigate the mental strain of long shifts.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Introducing mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine can significantly improve your mental well-being. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and visualization help clear your mind and reduce stress. These methods can be especially helpful during challenging times when work pressures are high, or feelings of isolation increase. This is a topic touched on by our manager recruitment consultant at CA Mining, Christo van der Harm, who vouches for meditation and moments of quietness as a tool to manage stress and gain clarity when on site. To watch the full video visit our social media platforms.
- Prioritize Physical Health Through Regular Exercise
Physical activity is closely tied to mental well-being. Exercise, whether it’s a short walk, a workout at the site’s gym, or even stretching exercises in your living quarters, can reduce stress, improve your mood, and enhance your overall sense of well-being. Maintaining your physical health through regular activity also helps to counterbalance the sedentary nature of some mining jobs. In his video, Christo van der Harm, also claims that turning stress into muscle or sweat is the ultimate solution to express your feelings and not bottle everything in like men are often told they should. To watch the full video where Christo advises on how to take of your wellbeing on site, visit our social media platforms.
- Open Up and Seek Support
If you’re struggling with mental health issues, it’s important to speak up. Reaching out to a trusted colleague, friend, or mental health professional can alleviate the pressure and help you gain perspective on how to manage your feelings. Talking about your experience can foster a sense of community and reduce feelings of loneliness.
The Role of Employers in Supporting
Mental Well-being
Mining companies play a vital role in safeguarding the mental wellbeing of their employees. Offering support systems, such as mental health resources, wellness programs, and access to counseling services, can make a world of difference in fostering a healthier workforce. At CA Mining, we encourage companies to prioritize mental health initiatives in the workplace and create an environment where employees feel safe and supported.
CA Mining: Providing Recruitment
Solutions That Understand Industry
Challenges
At CA Mining, we know that finding the right fit goes beyond matching technical skills with job descriptions. We recognize the full picture, including the emotional and mental demands that come with working in such a physically challenging and often isolated industry. Our recruitment process takes these factors into account to ensure that candidates are not only the best technical fit but are also equipped to manage the unique pressures of the role, such as FIFO rotations and relocation.
Participate in Our Survey to Make a
Difference
By participating in our survey, you’ll be contributing to a deeper understanding of the mental health challenges faced by mining professionals. Your feedback will help us develop solutions that cater to the well-being of workers while enabling mining companies to optimize their operations through better, more supportive staffing solutions. Our goal is to create a future where professionals can excel in their careers without compromising their mental health.
Our Commitment to You
At CA Mining, we pride ourselves on being more than just recruitment specialists. We are your partners in long-term career and business development. Through our expertise in mining recruitment, we ensure that our clients get the best-fit professionals for their needs, and that our candidates are placed in roles where they can thrive, both mentally and professionally.
As part of our ongoing commitment to the mining industry, we will continue to explore ways to support the mental health of mining professionals through proactive recruitment strategies, industry insights, and by fostering conversations around well-being. By working together, we can ensure a future where productivity and mental health go hand in hand, enabling both companies and professionals to succeed.
Take the Survey Today
Your experiences are invaluable. Join the conversation and help us better understand the mental health challenges in the mining sector.
Take part in our survey today, and together we can shape a healthier, more balanced future for mining professionals.
