Introduction
Firstly we’ll be very upfront – we’re not trying to claim the credit for this article, we’re simply sharing some elements from a recent study carried out by occupational health psychology consultancy and research group, Affinity Health at Work. The study brings together global findings from stakeholder interviews, a survey of remote rotational workers and an extensive literature review.
As the Reuzer client base is very much based on the rotational / offshore worker – we thought this article might be a good read for some of our followers. We also thought it might prompt some organizations to take the mental health and well-being of their employees seriously, as to be honest it’s pretty eye opening and concerning read.
The Stats
(source: mental Health and the remote rotational worker)
Suicidal thoughts: 40% of all respondents experienced suicidal thoughts on rotation some or all the time. Compared to the global average of 4-9%, this highlights the importance of recognising mental health resilience.
Clinical depression: nearly 1/3 (29%) met the benchmark for clinical depression whilst on-rotation. 52% felt that their mood declined, and their mental health suffered whilst on rotation. Potential health and safety risks, increased loss time injuries (LTIs) as well as financial and legal implications were highlighted as key issues from the research. Another main finding is that organisations are recommended to review flexible working polices and arrangements, offer on-site training for employees and develop programmes and resources to improve moral and work-life balance.
Exercise: over a third exercised less (35%) and experienced worse-quality sleep (38%) and over a quarter (28%) were less able to eat a nutritious diet whilst on rotation. The knock-on effect of poor physical health contribute to additional health and safety risks on site, reduced productivity as well as increased LTIs.
COVID-19: COVID-19 increased the demands of their job (65%), their stress and anxiety levels (56%) and their working hours (55%). Nearly half were also more concerned for their personal safety (49%). The pandemic has exacerbated potential health and safety risks, challenged productivity levels and increased the risks of accidents on site.
More info and help
If you are interested in learning more about mental health and wellbeing or you would like to find out what support is available you can try:
Mind – one of the leading mental charities in the UK.
Calm – the charity Campaign Against Living Miserably.
Samaritans – online, in person and telephone support to anyone struggling with their mental health.
Rethink – advice, housing, advocacy, training and peer support to those living with mental illness.
Your medic or local doctor will have advice, support services and resources to help.
Reuzer are also really pleased to have had the pleasure to partner with Seadrill and Norfolk and Waveney MIND to co-create a brilliant e-learning module geared toward supporting the mental health of the offshore workforce – read more here and watch a short course promo here. For more information contact info@reuzer.com
