Almost one third of mining employees experiencing mental health problems believe they are not feeling supported by the company they work for, according to a recent Mining People International survey.
Of the 85 per cent of respondents who said they had experienced mental health problems while working in mining, 68 per cent said they felt their company had offered genuine help.
That means just under one third, or 32 per cent, of employees experiencing mental health problems aren’t getting the support they need.
Last month the Mining People Poll asked mining industry employees about their experiences with mental health in mining.
Specifically, it asked whether they felt their company had been supportive and proactively offered genuine assistance.
While only 33 people responded to the poll, results show those who have an interest in mental health in mining are more likely to fill out a survey on the issue.
According to an International Mining People statement, the results do not suggest that 85 per cent of people in mining have experienced mental health issues
In October, Newcrest Mining introduced a program called Thinking Well to address mental health and the challenges COVID-19 has had on its employees.
This follows company health and hygiene reviews that were aimed to identify risks to people, including mental health illness, musculoskeletal disorders and acid mist.
Mental health is part of the company’s three pillars of health, hygiene and wellness framework.
Last year, Minerals Council of Australia chief executive officer Tania Constable said workplace mental health programs are a sound investment in workforce wellbeing that delivers significant return.
“Mental health programs can also improve organisational adaptability, general health and safety and reduce staff turnover,” Constable said.
“MCA encourages top-to-bottom leadership to create and maintain a mentally healthy workplace.
“Management should promote the importance of mental health and wellbeing to all workers in the minerals industry.”