U.S. coal miners exhibiting high rates of depression

The researcher noted these rates of mental illness among miners in Virginia “far exceeded those documented in coal mining populations internationally.” (Credit: Rasta777/Shutterstock.com)

As the business world increasingly recognizes mental health as critical to an employee’s overall health, research shows more than one-third of coal miners, both current and former ones diagnosed with black lung, are struggling with depression, the University of Virginia (UVA) School of Medicine reported. Further, more than 1-in-10 have recently considered suicide.

The study, conducted by the Black Lung Clinic at Stone Mount Health Services in Virginia, is prompting calls for more mental health resources and treatment for coal miners. The researchers are pushing for further studies on potential contributing factors, including social determinants of health, substance use and workplace safety.