Mental Health in Agriculture

Siophie Law

Farmers are well known for hard work and dedication to their stock - but one thing that has now become apparent is how dedicated they should also be to their mental health.  With long hours of work on a daily basis, alot of this being lone working and huge financial strain in such difficult times farmers are faced with a huge mental health struggle.

The Mind Your Head campaign was launched in 2018 to raise awareness and they say "since then, one thing has become evident; farmer health and wellbeing can not, and should not, be ignored – by any of us."

This year, their 6th annual campaign is running from 13th - 17th February, and it could not have come at a better time with all the pressures that is on Farmers at the moment.  From the war in Ukraine putting up prices, the cost of living increasing and increasing feeding costs.

The Farm Safety Foundation can provide different ways of supporting those who my need a chat or further support through difficult times.  Their main focous is to try and change the stigma and the way mental health is seen, providing training to those who are interested in supporting others.  They engage and work alonside young farmers' clubs to face the problem head on and change the way mental health is looked at and supported by the younger generation.

"Mind Your Head has become a key focus in the farming calendar and brings together over 330 partners from across the UK to encourage those living and working in the sector to look out for each other and look after each other not just this week but every week."

If you want to get involved please email HERE  and they can forward their official toolkit "but, if you just want to support on social media, please follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter  @yellowwelliesUK or search using the hashtag #MindYourHead "