WELLBEING

SOCIAL CONNECTION

The importance of meaningful relationships and social support networks, from friends to family, community connections and intimate partnerships

Spending extended periods of time away from home is difficult for some. Distance from loved ones, isolation, hard work, and long days and nights can have unwanted effects on wellbeing and mental health. It’s important to know what you can do for entertainment and keeping busy.

Mining rosters can give you the opportunity to capitalise on some “you” time, and to build connections and foster new friendships. You may be a social butterfly, or have a limited social battery. Whatever the case, there are so many ways to make the most of your time after work and at camp.

Every day brings the chance to embrace new experiences, cherish meaningful connections, and seize opportunities to enrich your life and create lasting memories. From solo exploration to shared adventures, your journey is yours to shape, discover and enjoy to the fullest.

BULIDING FRIENDSHIPS

REACHING OUT TO OTHERS

The challenges of adult friendships, and why reaching out matters

Making friends as an adult is not as straightforward as it was during school days. The responsibilities of work, family, and personal commitments often leave little room for socialising. In mining camps, workers trying to make connections are also facing isolation, physical exhaustion, long working hours, and the transient nature of the workforce. Building connections with those you see often is a huge plus!

The benefits of building strong social connections in mining

Mental health and wellbeing: Isolation can take a toll on mental health, bringing on debilitating feelings of loneliness. Having friends to talk to, perhaps when we’re unable to reach family and friends back home, can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and stress. Social support is crucial in maintaining a healthy mental state.

Building a knowledgeable support network: In the high-pressure environment of mining, having a support network can make a big difference. Connections in the industry can provide practical assistance, advice, and a sense of community, making the challenging aspects of the job more manageable.

Enhancing job satisfaction: Positive workplace relationships contribute to a more enjoyable and fulfilling work experience. When workers feel connected to their colleagues, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.

Personal growth: Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences can lead to personal growth. Friendships in mining camps expose workers to different perspectives and ideas, enriching their lives beyond the professional sphere.

Tips for making connections

Be open and approachable: Smile, greet people as they pass, and show a genuine interest in getting to know your colleagues (being respectful of boundaries and appropriate workplace behaviours). Small gestures can break the ice and lay the foundation for long lasting friendships.

Participate in social activities: Many mining camps organise social events, sports, and recreational activities. Taking part can provide opportunities to meet new people and bond over shared interests.

Leverage common spaces: Common areas like dining halls/the mess, gyms, and recreational rooms are great places to strike up conversation. Use these spaces to your advantage to mingle and interact.

Join clubs or groups: If the camp has clubs or groups based on hobbies or interests, join them - or, create one yourself!

Offer help and seek assistance: Offering to help a colleague with a task or asking for assistance can foster a sense of camaraderie. These interactions can pave the way for building trust and connection.

Stay in touch: When on R&R, if you feel comfortable, make an effort to stay in touch with the friends you’ve made. Social media, messaging apps, and regular check-ins can help maintain these connections.

Organise a group activity: If you’ve made a few new friends, why not gather together and spread the connections? Check out our suggestions below for help to widen your circle, continue friendships and build a positive send of community.

GROUP ACTIVITIES

THINGS TO DO TOGETHER

Gather round for some good old group activities! Camp time does not need to be the same old eat dinner, watch Netflix, go to bed… What are you waiting for!?

  • Sign up for an induction, and join the village gym alone, or with a friend. Find a gym buddy on the same swing as you to help keep each other accountable and motivated, or check out the classes timetable.

  • Invite a group for a picnic dinner. Grab takeaway food from the mess, drinks, a few blankets, mosquito repellent and maybe a small speaker. Find a space on some grass, and chill.

  • If your village has a recreation room, create a regular games night with teams and keep a scoreboard for some friendly competition. It could be darts, billiards, air hockey or whatever available.

  • Bring some uno cards, boardgame or puzzle - share around for anybody who’d like to join in.

  • Organise a village Olympics! Come up with a new “event” each swing - it could be a sport, skill challenge, or something completely odd. Repeat your Olympics each season, once a year, or just keep it going indefinitely.

  • Lead a trivia night. Random facts about anything you like, there are no rules here! Have theme nights, and invite others to take turns hosting and choosing topics.