Joslyn Gardiner

In Australia we have thousands of FIFO – fly in fly out – workers. Often these men and women are envied for their seemingly great lifestle. Good pay, lots of frequent flyer points, only work half the year. But there is a downside. Distance from family. Maintaining long term relationships can be stressful. Anxiety if something goes wrong at home. The long hours of solitude in a small room each night gives ‘the mind’ the opportunity to ‘mess with our heads.’ Who do you talk to when you are feeling down or something ‘happens?’ The mental health of FIFO staff is a real issue for companies. Miners need to be encouraged to keep an eye on their mates. R U OK? Your mental health matters.