Psychological distress among workers at a mine
Yolanda Havenga1, Michelle Bester1
1Adelaide Tambo School of Nursing Science, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa.
Summary
A third of South African mine employees experience moderate to severe psychological distress. Targeted interventions for women, younger staff, and integrated alcohol and mental health support are crucial for improving workplace safety and productivity.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mining industries present significant risks for psychological distress.
- Unaddressed distress can negatively impact safety, attendance, and output.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess psychological distress levels in South African mine employees.
- To identify sociodemographic factors associated with this distress.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative correlation design with 927 participants from four mining sites.
- Data collected via questionnaires including the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10).
Main Results:
- 31% of employees reported moderate to severe psychological distress.
- Higher distress levels were linked to being female, younger, and higher alcohol consumption likelihood.
Conclusions:
- Psychological distress affects a significant portion of mine workers, necessitating targeted interventions.
- Interventions should address individual, workplace, and environmental factors, with a focus on women, youth, and integrated alcohol-mental health support.
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