In my early years in the Australian Army, I had plenty of exposure to stress but no effective training on how to recognise it or manage stress during or after the event. Years later, when I stepped into the mining industry as a responder, the experience felt very similar. Once again, I had to draw heavily on my Army background to manage the pressure and uncertainty. But not everyone has that foundation to fall back on - and that’s exactly why training early in this space is so important. We know that stress and anxiety are closely connected. Stress is the body’s natural response to challenge, while anxiety can develop when stress becomes excessive or prolonged, especially when it is not managed effectively. The Yerkes–Dodson Law shows us that not all stress is bad: · Too little pressure can lead to complacency and low performance. · Too much pressure for too long can result in stress, burnout, and an increased risk of anxiety disorders. · Optimal pressure — the right balance of stress — can sharpen focus, increase motivation, and enhance performance to get the job done. Avoidance only strengthens fear. The most effective way forward is supported exposure — facing challenges with the right support, skills, and mindset. Building Resilience with Adaptable Mines The Adaptable Mines program is designed as a starting point for young adults, new entrants, and apprentices in the WA mining industry. It equips participants to recognise the signs of stress, apply practical tools to manage it effectively, and build awareness of resilience to perform under pressure and recover afterwards. By learning these skills early, young workers can step confidently into high-pressure environments - building resilience for both life and work. Leaders and supervisors of this cohort are encouraged to attend as well, enabling them to model these skills and pass them on while developing their teams. Thanks to the MARS Program, Adaptable Mines workshops are FREE for eligible WA mining personnel. 👉 If you’re supporting new starters or apprentices, this program is designed for them.