Mental Health Issues in FIFO workers, the basics

A recent study has found that Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO) and Drive in Drive Out (DIDO) workers in Western Australia report higher rates of psychological distress than those living in a fixed location. Telehealth psychology can be an accessible form of treatment for mental health issues in FIFO workers. Psychological issues for FIFO and DIDO workers include higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts, higher rates of risky drinking behaviours and higher rates of loneliness. The pressures of these demanding jobs, combined with isolation, long hours, and limited access to mental health support, can lead to serious psychological challenges. In this blog, we will explore mental health issues in FIFO workers (as well as DIDO and remote area workers in Australia), highlighting the key factors contributing to these challenges and how psychological therapy can help to address these issues. If you would like to discuss your needs or book an appointment, then please get in contact.

Isolation and Loneliness

Psycho-social isolation is one of the most significant mental health challenges for FIFO and remote area workers is isolation. FIFO workers often spend weeks away from family and friends, and during their time on-site, they have limited opportunities to socialize. Remote workers, living in small, isolated communities, may experience similar feelings of loneliness. According to a 2016 study of FIFO mental health issues and DIDO mental health issues were mediated by the amount of isolation felt by workers, so where there was more opportunity to socialise, mental health was better.

Isolation is a major factor because social connections are crucial for mental health. FIFO workers may struggle to maintain relationships, while remote workers may feel disconnected from a larger social network. The absence of regular, meaningful social interactions exacerbates feelings of loneliness and can trigger depression or anxiety disorders. These mental health issues may go unnoticed, as workers may be reluctant to share their struggles due to fear of stigma or appearing weak.

One of the primary benefits of psychological therapy for FIFO and remote area workers is its ability to address feelings of isolation and loneliness. Therapy provides a safe and confidential space for workers to express their feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help individuals reframe negative thought patterns associated with isolation and develop coping strategies to manage these emotions more effectively. By discussing their concerns with a trained professional, workers can reduce the emotional burden of isolation and gain a greater sense of control over their mental health.

Sleep Disruption and Physical Health

The nature of FIFO, DIDO and remote work often leads to significant disruptions in workers’ sleep patterns. These workers frequently work 12-hour shifts and are exposed to long, irregular hours, leading to sleep deprivation. Shift work is associated with considerable impacts on sleep, depressed mood, anxiety, substance use, impairments in cognition, lower quality of life, and even suicidal ideation. Pronounced sleep disturbances frequently underlie the mental health consequences of shift work.

Sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being, and chronic disruption can have severe consequences. For example, inadequate sleep can impair cognitive function, increase stress levels, and lead to burnout. Workers who don’t get enough rest may find it challenging to recover, both physically and mentally, which compounds the effects of stress and isolation.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals overcome sleep problems. It targets negative thoughts and behaviors related to sleep, such as worrying about sleep or using stimulants like caffeine to stay awake. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, CBT-I has been shown to be highly effective in improving sleep quality, reducing insomnia, and promoting better mental health in shift workers. By improving sleep patterns through psychological therapy, FIFO and remote workers can experience better mental and physical health, increased energy, and enhanced job performance.

High-Stress Work Environments

The high-risk, high-stress nature of the industries employing FIFO, DIDO and remote workers—such as mining, construction, and agriculture—presents another significant mental health challenge. Workers face physically demanding tasks in extreme environments, strict safety requirements, and high-pressure situations. The constant need to meet tight deadlines and adhere to safety standards can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety. Currently the threat of job cuts and the cost-of-living crisis is adding to stress for these workers.

Many people carry unresolved trauma and when working and living in a high stress environment away from normal social supports, these issues can be exacerbated. Seeking therapeutic health for past trauma can be helpful in managing current stress as well as dealing with past events.

The high-stress environment of FIFO and remote area work can contribute to anxiety, burnout, and stress-related disorders. Workers are often required to meet strict deadlines, handle dangerous tasks, and deal with physical and mental fatigue. Psychological therapy plays a crucial role in reducing these stressors.

Therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and relaxation techniques can help workers manage stress in healthy ways. These therapies teach workers how to remain grounded, focus on the present moment, and manage negative emotions.

Therapists can also help workers identify and address the root causes of their stress, such as unrealistic expectations or poor work-life balance. By providing tools to manage anxiety and improve emotional regulation, psychological therapy supports workers in coping better with the daily pressures of their jobs.

Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism

For many FIFO, DIDO and remote area workers, the isolation, stress, and physical demands of their jobs may lead them to seek unhealthy coping mechanisms. Alcohol abuse is particularly prevalent among FIFO workers, with many using it as a way to unwind after long shifts or to socialize with others. A study found that compared with other employment types, FIFO workers were significantly more likely to be current smokers, drink alcohol at risky levels, and be overweight or obese.

Substance abuse may initially appear to be a solution to the stress or loneliness of FIFO life, but it can quickly develop into a harmful cycle. Over time, substance abuse can worsen mental health conditions, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.

The stress, isolation, and physical demands of FIFO and remote area work can increase the likelihood of substance abuse as workers seek ways to cope. Alcohol is often used as a means of relaxation or socialization, but it can quickly become a harmful coping mechanism. Psychological therapy can help address underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, which may contribute to substance use.

Therapies like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) https://groundedlifepsychology.com/emdr-therapy-trauma/ can help workers identify and process the root causes of their substance abuse and develop healthier coping strategies. Coping mechanisms such as alcohol and other substance use often develop when there is a history of trauma, EMDR helps to work through and process the past trauma so it’s no longer triggering.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

While the challenges are clear, the good news is that there is growing recognition of the need to address mental health issues in FIFO and remote area workers. The high-stress environment of FIFO and remote area work can contribute to anxiety, burnout, and stress-related disorders. Workers are often required to meet strict deadlines, handle dangerous tasks, and deal with physical and mental fatigue. Psychological therapy plays a crucial role in reducing these stressors.

Everyone has experienced trauma, when this trauma hasn’t been processed fully, living in a remote area or being a FIFO or DIDO worker can create the high stress environment where these issues start to surface. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) has been found to be one of the most cost-effective treatments for trauma. As outlined here, EMDR can be conducted via telehealth. I have lived and worked in remote areas, thus I have an understanding of some of the challenges faced by FIFO, DIDO and remote area workers. I am pleased to be able to provide telehealth psychology to many people throughout Australia.

Many companies are implementing programs to support mental well-being, including on-site counseling services, peer support networks, and mental health training for supervisors. Programs that focus on breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging workers to seek help are essential to creating a supportive work culture.

However, there is still more work to be done. Ensuring that workers have access to mental health resources and that employers take a proactive role in promoting mental well-being can lead to positive changes in the workforce. Additionally, providing workers with more time off and greater opportunities for social connection during their time off could alleviate feelings of isolation and help prevent mental health issues before they escalate.

Conclusion

FIFO and remote area workers in Australia face significant mental health challenges, driven by isolation, sleep disruption, high stress, and unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse. These challenges are further compounded by a culture that often stigmatizes mental health issues, making it difficult for workers to seek help. A telehealth clinical psychologist can provide professional, accessible and confidential support that may not otherwise be available in remote areas. With the right resources and understanding, FIFO and remote area workers can thrive both in their professional and personal lives.