“‘I’m Fine’ Is Bullshit—Here’s What That Silence Is Really Costing You”

Let’s not sugar-coat it:
Saying “I’m fine” when you’re clearly not is one of the most expensive lies a bloke can tell himself—and it’s costing more than your pride. It’s costing your health, your relationships, your sleep, and in some cases, your life.

The Problem With "I'm Fine"

We’ve all done it. You’re burnt out, barely holding it together, and someone asks how you’re doing.

"Yeah, I’m fine, mate."

Translation: “I’m f***ing drowning, but I don’t want to look weak.”

In mining culture—especially FIFO—there’s this tough-guy image that you’ve got to keep it all together. No emotions. No venting. Just push through. But here’s the cold, hard truth:

Silence is killing men.

Research from Beyond Blue shows men in mining and FIFO roles are 70% more likely to experience mental health issues than the general population. And the suicide rate? It’s more than double the national average for men.

You reckon saying “I’m fine” is saving face? It's not. It's just bottling the pressure until it explodes.

What That Silence Is Actually Costing You:

• Your Mental Health
  Bottling shit up leads to anxiety, depression, and burnout. No, it doesn’t just “go away after your swing.” It builds—and festers.

• Your Relationships
  Pushing people away because “you don’t want to talk about it” trains your partner, your kids, your mates to stop asking. Before you know it, you're isolated even when you're home.

• Your Sleep & Energy
  Ever notice how your fuse is shorter? Sleep’s stuffed? That’s your brain waving a red flag. Mental stress shows up physically—and FIFO life gives it a solid platform to wreak havoc.

• Your Safety at Work
  Mental fatigue is just as dangerous as physical fatigue. If your head’s not right, you’re a hazard on site. One slip-up and you’re done—or someone else is.

Why Blokes Stay Silent:

• “I don’t want to be a burden.”

• “No one gives a shit anyway.”

• “They’ll think I’m weak.”

• “It’s just part of the job.”

Let’s be blunt:
These are all lies your brain tells you when you’re struggling.
The reality? Speaking up doesn’t make you weak—it makes you smart. It gives you a chance to get your shit together before you hit rock bottom.

What You Can Do Instead:

1. Talk to Someone Who Gets It
   Not everyone will understand FIFO life—but some do. Find them. A mate, a former worker, a counselor who knows mining life. Don’t waste your words on people who don’t get it—invest them in someone who does.

2. Learn the Warning Signs

   • Constant fatigue, even after a break

   • Losing interest in stuff you used to enjoy

   • Getting irritated easily or blowing up over small shit

   • Drinking more just to “relax”

   • Feeling disconnected from your family or kids

   These aren’t “just part of the job.” They’re signs your brain is running low on steam.

3. Ditch the Superhero Mask
   You don’t need to be bulletproof. You just need to be honest—with yourself, and at least one other person.

Final Word

You’re not a robot. You’re a bloke doing a brutal job, trying to hold it all together—and that’s bloody hard. But if “I’m fine” is all you’ve got left, it’s time to ask yourself:

What’s it really costing you to stay silent?

It’s not weak to speak up. It’s wise.
It could save your job.
It could save your family.
It could save your life.

Organizations in Australia that focus on men's mental health include: 

• MensLine Australia: an online counselling and forum for men — call 1300 78 99 78
• Dads In Distress: a peer support for separated dads — call 1300 853 437
• SANE Australia: for people living with a mental illness — call 1800 18 7263 or chat online
• Beyond Blue: has health resources specifically designed for men — call 1300 22 4636