Mental health survey reveals how often Scots farmers take holidays
© AdobeStock Farmers and crofters in Scotland have been encouraged to take holidays away from the farm to improve wellbeing and productivity.
However, less than half (47%) feel confident that someone else would be able to manage the farm in their absence.
A survey of 280 Scottish farmers by agricultural charity the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rsabi) revealed that almost 43% of respondents took just two to five nights away from their farm last year.
More than a third (37%) of farmers surveyed did, however, manage to get off farm for seven nights or more.
See also: Hearing loss: Why farmers shouldn’t ignore early signs
Survey entrants were incentivised by the chance to win a four-night stay, courtesy of Lothian Glamping.
Carol McLaren, Rsabi chief executive, suggested that taking time away from the farm was important for wellbeing, and making time to step away and come back with a refreshed outlook could also bring benefits for farm businesses.
“While there are encouraging signs, the survey has highlighted the continued challenges farming families have to prioritise time for themselves,” said Ms McLaren.
“The initiative has also been an excellent opportunity for the Rsabi team to encourage more farmers to take those well-deserved breaks, knowing that it can make a world of difference to their health and wellbeing.”
Free mental health workshops in Scotland
The Farm Advisory Service and Farmstrong Scotland have partnered to provide workshops throughout September and October around mental health in farming and the role it plays in improving productivity on farm.
Alix Ritchie, Farmstrong programme director said:
“It is well known that the challenges we face in farming can be hard to predict and control, and as an industry we can’t afford to let these pressures reach the point where they damage productivity and affect the lives of families.”
Mary-Jane Lawrie of the Farm Advisory Service added that investing in yourself can lead to better outcomes in both your life and business.
She concluded: “We hope these workshops will encourage people to make small changes that can lead to big improvements — not just for their businesses, but for their own peace of mind and quality of life.”
More information is available at the Farm Strong website.