At Oriems Fit Research Digest, we simplify real research from top universities so everyone—from 14 to 70—can understand it. Each post ends with a link to the full study, perfect for curious minds who love collecting facts.
Today’s topic isn’t about EMS, but it’s vital—especially if you or someone you love works FIFO. This might be one of the most important reads of the year.
🧠 What’s This Study About?
Research Paper Original Name:
Examining the Influence of Behavioural Attitudes and Burnout on the Help-Seeking Behaviour of Australian Fly-in/Fly-Out Workers Using a Theory of Planned Behaviour Framework
Author: Cindy Lewis
University: Murdoch University, Western Australia
Type of Study: Master’s thesis using anonymous surveys of 105 FIFO workers
❓Questions and Answers to Make This Easy
🧑🔬 Who did this research and when?
The research was done in by Cindy Lewis, a student of Master of Applied Psychology (Organisational) at Murdoch University in WA.
🇦🇺 Where did the researchers come from?
Murdoch University is a respected Australian university known for research in health, education, and psychology. The study was reviewed and approved by a university ethics committee.
💸 Who funded this?
It was a university-based thesis, not funded by any big company or government, which makes it more neutral.
🏗 What is this research specifically about?
The study looked at why so many FIFO workers (people who fly in to work in mining or construction sites and fly out again after weeks) avoid asking for help when they’re stressed or burned out. The researcher wanted to see how burnout and workplace culture affect their willingness to get support.
👷♂️ Who did they study?
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105 FIFO workers
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67.6% were men
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Ages 18 to 62 (average age: 37)
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Most worked in field-based jobs and long rosters like 2 weeks on, 1 week off
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Many had kids and families depending on them
🧪 Which research method was used?
A detailed anonymous online survey asking about:
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How burned out they feel
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How likely they are to seek help
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How much support they feel from co-workers
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What they think others would say if they asked for help
📊 What did the researchers find?
💥 Key Finding #1: Most FIFO workers are burned out
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Average burnout score was 3.63 out of 7
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A score above 3.5 means you’re officially burned out
💥 Key Finding #2: Most don’t ask for help
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Many had access to mental health support at work (like EAPs)
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But they don’t use them
💥 Key Finding #3: Why?
Not because they think it won’t work.
Not because they don’t believe in therapy.
But because they’re afraid of what others might think.
The biggest blocker is worrying about what mates or coworkers might say.
📈 More Specific Data You Should Know:
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Workers with more support from coworkers were more likely to seek help
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The idea of “being weak” or “not tough enough” was a common hidden reason for not seeking help
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Even if someone wanted to get help, fear of being judged stopped them
🤔 Why does this matter to EMS users?
This study shows how much mental pressure and stress FIFO workers carry. And that matters to us, because many Oriems Fit users are FIFO workers, truck drivers, miners, or people in high-pressure jobs.
Burnout doesn’t just affect the mind—it affects the body too. When you're burned out, your muscles stay tense, you sleep worse, and your body stays in “fight or flight” mode. EMS technology can help relax your muscles and create more calm physically—but we always remind you: recovery is also mental.
So if you're a FIFO worker, or love someone who is—don’t wait until it’s too late. Share this blog post. Talk to someone. And don’t be afraid to ask for support. You're not weak—you're smart.
📥 Download the Full Research Paper (for the curious!)
Simplified Name:
Why FIFO Workers Avoid Getting Help (Even When They Need It)
Original Title:
Examining the Influence of Behavioural Attitudes and Burnout on the Help-Seeking Behaviour of Australian Fly-in/Fly-Out Workers Using a Theory of Planned Behaviour Framework
Link to Study:
Read or download it here (PDF)
Why this source is trustworthy:
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From Murdoch University
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Reviewed by ethics committee
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Based on real survey data, not opinion
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No funding bias
💬 Got something to say?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you worked FIFO before? Did you feel burned out but didn’t speak up? Leave a comment and let’s talk about it.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
👉 Full Disclaimer
