Campaign encourages farmers to open up on mental health

The Farming Community Network (FCN) is asking farmers if they really are “as tough as old boots”, as part of a new initiative to encourage rural workers to talk about their mental health.

Posters created by the charity ask the question, before suggesting some of the ways farmers might put on a brave face and avoid talking about difficult topics such as suicide, bereavement, loneliness and feeling overwhelmed.

See also: Where farmers in need can find charity help

The campaign has been launched at the start of Mental Health Awareness Week (10-16 May).

The charity hopes people will share the poster with local GP surgeries, veterinary clinics, village halls and more to help let those living and working in rural and farming communities know that help is available.

Alex Phillimore from FCN said: “Our personal health and wellbeing is a difficult topic to talk about and many suffer in silence.

© FCN

“Farmers can have a reputation for being able to weather any storm and overcome any challenge. While farmers are incredibly resilient, there is no harm in letting people know when we need an extra hand, or when we’re worried about something and don’t know how to resolve it on our own.”

Training on offer

FCN teamed up with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs and the DPJ Foundation mental health charity last month to launch mental health awareness training for 10- to 26-year-old YFC members and 16- to 25-year-old agriculture students.

The training focuses on understanding stress and anxiety, managing personal mental wellbeing, how to talk about mental health, and seeking support and supporting others.

For those experiencing suicidal thoughts, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or at jo@samaritans.org