After spending many moons working as a Health, Safety, and Training Manager in the mining industry, I've come to realise the urgency of addressing mental health concerns, especially those unique to women in our sector. It's not just about policies and procedures; it's about promoting a culture of empathy, connection, and support.

In my role, I understand that mental health is not a one-size-fits-all issue. While it's imperative to promote mental health initiatives for all workers, I acknowledge that gender intersects with mental health in profound ways. Women in mining face unique challenges that contribute to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.

I’ve seen and supported women facing all kinds of challenges that are unique to working in a male-dominated industry including, sexual harrassment, workplace bullying and trying to balance family commitments while working long hours in remote locations. Too often, I would have ladies come up to me and plead for help in addressing the challenges they faced. It was apparent to me that the struggles were inherent throughout the industry - from frontline operators and maintainers, admin staff, right up to senior leadership roles.

Talking about gender these days can be a controversial subject, but we can’t ignore the fact that issues such as infertility, menopause, and postpartum depression further compound the emotional burdens experienced by women in our industry. These challenges are real, and they cannot be overlooked or dismissed. They require tailored support and understanding.

As a woman in a leadership position, I recognised the power of role modelling mentally healthy behaviours to build a culture of connection and support. It's about creating spaces where women feel safe to express themselves authentically, without fear of judgment or stigma. Through open dialogue, empathy, and active listening, we can break down barriers and create an environment where women feel empowered to prioritise their mental well-being. It's about fostering inclusivity and representation, ensuring that the voices of women are heard and valued at every level of our organisation.

I am committed to continually promoting mental health initiatives targeted specifically to women in mining. This means providing accessible resources, facilitating support networks, and advocating for policies that prioritise the holistic well-being of women in our industry.

Together, we can redefine what it means to be strong in mining—not by hiding our vulnerabilities, but by embracing them as sources of strength and resilience. Let us lead with authenticity, compassion, and empathy, creating a workplace where every woman feels seen, heard, and supported on her journey toward mental wellness.

Image by Vecstoc

Advocate for Women’s Mental Health in the Mining Industry

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