Mental health survey reveals factors affecting young farmers

Long working hours, isolation and a reluctance to talk about feelings are among the most common factors affecting the mental health in young farmers.

This is according to a new survey by the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rsabi) charity.

The survey of 114 participants aged 16-30 took place at this year’s Royal Highland Show.

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The charity found other concerns included the cost of going out, shyness and uncertainty over how to meet people.

Rsabi chief executive Carol McLaren said: “We know that social anxiety among young people, aggravated by lockdown during Covid, is a major issue that young farmers – and indeed many older people – in the farming community are now struggling with.”

An overwhelming majority (98%) of the young farmers that took part in the survey said that attending agricultural shows, such as the Royal Highland Show, was good for their mental health.

They were also asked if they felt they would know how to support someone close to them that was struggling with their mental health.

About two-thirds said they did, while one-third said they did not.

“We are encouraging people not to hesitate to reach out to Rsabi,” said Ms McLaren.

“But everyone in the agricultural community can play an important part in encouraging positive mental health by actively looking out for people who might be at risk of feeling lonely or low.

“Just contacting someone or other small acts of kindness can make a huge difference and could even save a life, although you may never know it.”