Along with job insecurity, a new report has pegged conflict with colleagues and managers and bullying and harassment as other key concerns.
Job isolation and long hours rounded out the top five.
The report was compiled by corporate psychology firm AccessEAP, and clinical services manager Marcela Slepica said it was no surprise employees were worried about their jobs in the current business climate.
Taking a wider view of stress in the mining sector, the report said a ‘macho’ culture and fear of being stigmatised were some of the reasons employees weren’t seeking help.
“There is a need to change the culture within the industry to be inclusive and promote good mental health for all,” Slepica said.
“When people feel under pressure to achieve or feel there are high expectations related to long hours, high volumes, or perceived pressure from management, tensions may run high and the result is increased conflict in the workplace.
“This may lead to bullying and harassment and our data shows that mining employees are requesting support for conflict, bullying and harassment.”
Slepica said the prevalence of fly-in fly-out rosters was also a key trigger that had been well documented.
“The nature of the industry means that miners are working long hours often with rotating rosters including night and twelve hour shifts and are often away from family and loved ones for long periods of time,” she said.
“The pressure and strain of long hours can lead to stress and impact on relationships and well-being, if not managed correctly.”
In order to manage stress, AccessEAP suggested workers connect with family and friends and prioritise relaxation and exercise.
It said it was important to have a plan for stressful scenarios and workers needed to learn how defuse situations with other colleagues.
Finally, the firm said it was important to focus on having a positive attitude and appreciating oneself and others.