Psychological distress among workers at a mine

Abstract

Background: Mining industries are high-risk workplaces for psychological distress. Unaddressed psychological distress can lead to accidents, absenteeism and decreased productivity.

Aim: This study sought to determine levels of psychological distress and associated sociodemographic factors among employees working at a mining company in South Africa.

Setting: The study was conducted at four sites, including three underground mines and a head office, across a number of provinces in South Africa.

Methods: A quantitative correlation design was used with 927 respondents recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire containing sociodemographic items, the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test. The response rate was 84%.

Results: Two-thirds (69%) of participants reported no or mild psychological distress, while a third (31%) experienced moderate to severe distress. Women, younger employees, employees at site 1 and those with increased likelihood of alcohol consumption at higher risk levels, were more likely to experience higher levels of psychological distress.

Conclusion: Psychological distress potentially impacts daily functioning for a third of employees, indicating a need for prevention and management interventions addressing personal, workplace and environmental factors.

Contribution: This study identifies critical sociodemographic factors associated with psychological distress among South African mine employees. These factors can inform targeted mental health interventions to improve employees’ mental health, safety and productivity. The findings highlight the need to focus on targeted mental health interventions for women and younger employees and to design interventions that address alcohol use and mental health in an integrated manner.