Bridging the Gap – Women in Mining and Mental Health

Introduction: Mining’s Hidden Challenges

Mining has long been a symbol of grit, innovation, and economic progress. But beneath its rugged exterior lies a deeper narrative—one of women carving out space in an industry historically dominated by men. Despite progress, the journey for women in mining is far from smooth, as they navigate challenges ranging from harassment and pay inequity to ill-fitting safety gear and mental health struggles.

In this blog, we delve into the findings of a high-level study on women in mining, examining the unique challenges they face, the impact on their mental health, and the steps the industry can take to create a more inclusive, supportive environment.

Key Challenges Women Face in Mining

Women in mining encounter systemic barriers that affect their professional growth, safety, and well-being. These challenges include:

1. Workplace Harassment and Discrimination
   Harassment remains a persistent issue, from microaggressions to overt sexism. A 2019 South African study found over 60% of women in mining reported experiencing harassment during their careers.
2. Ill-Fitting PPE
   Personal protective equipment designed for male body types often compromises safety for women. Oversized gloves and helmets can lead to accidents, while the lack of gender-specific options impacts self-esteem and belonging.
3. Work-Life Balance
   Mining’s demanding schedules, particularly in Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO) roles, make balancing family responsibilities and career aspirations a monumental task for many women.
4. Limited Career Growth
   Despite efforts to diversify leadership, women still face a glass ceiling in mining. Few hold executive positions, and mentorship opportunities remain scarce.
5. Cultural Stereotypes
   Perceptions of mining as a “man’s job” continue to limit opportunities for women, discouraging younger generations from pursuing careers in the field.

The Mental Health Toll

The mental health implications of these challenges are significant. Women in mining often experience heightened stress, anxiety, and burnout, compounded by isolation in remote locations and the lack of support systems.

• Young Women (Ages 18–25): Harassment during internships or early career stages can lead to self-doubt and alienation, deterring them from staying in the industry.
• Mid-Career Women (Ages 30–45): Role overload—balancing family responsibilities and demanding work schedules—leads to chronic stress and fatigue.
• FIFO Workers: Prolonged separation from family increases loneliness and depression, with FIFO workers 70% more likely to experience significant mental distress than their non-FIFO counterparts.

Steps Toward Change

Mining companies and industry stakeholders are beginning to address these issues, with varying degrees of success. Promising initiatives include:

1. Gender-Specific PPE Programs
   Manufacturers and companies are rolling out safety gear designed specifically for women, improving safety and comfort.
2. Flexible FIFO Schedules
   Companies like Oz Minerals have piloted shorter FIFO rotations, reducing burnout and attracting more women to the workforce.
3. On-Site Childcare Facilities
   Programs like Newmont’s childcare centers allow parents to focus on work without compromising family responsibilities, leading to higher retention rates.
4. Mentorship Programs
   Structured initiatives such as Anglo American’s “Women in Leadership” pipeline offer sponsorship and leadership training to high-potential female employees.
5. Mental Health Support
   Companies like Vale have introduced Mental Health First Aid programs, empowering employees to spot signs of distress and provide peer support.

A Vision for the Future

The path to inclusivity and mental health equity in mining is not without obstacles. However, every initiative—whether a mentorship program, a flexible schedule, or a mental health hotline—builds momentum toward a better, more equitable future.

By embedding diversity and mental health into corporate strategy, fostering supportive work environments, and challenging cultural stereotypes, the mining industry can harness the full potential of its workforce. A healthier, more inclusive sector benefits everyone—employees, communities, and companies alike.

Let’s dig deeper—not just for resources, but for a culture of respect, equality, and resilience.

 Link to our study: https://drilldownreports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Women-in-Mining-Mental-Health.pdf 

Want to learn more about how the mining industry is evolving to support women? Join the conversation by sharing your insights and experiences in the comments below!