Article Summary: In February 2023, the National Farmer Wellbeing Report conducted a comprehensive survey involving 1,300 farmers across Australia. The results are deeply concerning, revealing that 30% of farmers have experienced attempted self-harm or suicide. In response to these alarming findings, the National Farmers' Federation is urgently urging state and federal governments to prioritise and take decisive action on farmer mental health. The need for support and intervention has never been more critical, as the well-being of our farmers is an essential aspect of maintaining a sustainable and thriving agricultural industry. We discuss these findings and give helpful tips if you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty.
New research has brought the mental health of Australian farmers into focus, revealing distressing statistics on self-harm and suicide. This alarming report has sparked urgent calls for government support and collaboration across the industry to establish farmer-to-farmer support networks nationwide.
Survey shows 30% of Australian farmers face mental health struggles
Norco has commissioned the National Farmer Wellbeing Report. They are Australia's oldest and largest 100% farmer-owned dairy co-operative. And in partnership with the National Farmers' Federation, their report has uncovered some concerning trends. Nearly a third (30%) of farmers reported declining mental health over the past few years.
The findings indicate that close to half of Australian farmers (45%) have experienced depression, with almost two-thirds (64%) facing anxiety, and for one in seven (14%), it's a recurring struggle. Even more alarming, nearly half of them (45%) have grappled with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and almost a third (30%) have attempted self-harm or suicide.
This data brings to light a critical national health crisis that demands immediate attention. It adds to existing research showing that one farmer commits suicide every ten days, and farmers are twice as likely to commit suicide compared to non-farmers in the general population.
Feelings of loneliness or isolation, along with limited access to rural mental health services, have significantly impacted more than a quarter of farmers (27%) over the past five years.
The urgency to address farmer mental health cannot be overstated. We must come together as a community to provide much-needed support and create networks where farmers can lean on each other during tough times. By rallying support from the government and the entire farming industry, we can work towards better mental health outcomes for our hardworking farmers and build a healthier and more resilient agricultural sector for the future.
And there’s one main factor causing anguish, pain and unease among Australian farmers.
Extreme weather events
New findings from the Report shed light on the factors significantly affecting farmer mental health in Australia. Weather-related events and natural disasters emerged as the top stressors, impacting the well-being of 47% of farmers. Financial stress followed closely, affecting 36% of farmers, while inflation and cost pressures also weighed heavily on 35% of respondents.
The nationwide impact of natural disasters is staggering, with a staggering 88% of Australian farmers reporting significant impacts on their farming operations over the past five years. On average, each farm incurred costs amounting to $1.4 million.
When asked about the emotional toll of these experiences, more than half of farmers (54%) highlighted the heavy financial burden. Meanwhile, these events’ impact on animals and loss of stock weighed heavily on 39% of respondents, while the physical rebuilding and recovery process affected 37%.
The emotional toll of these events was significant, with one in five Aussie farmers (20%) reporting feelings of defeat and the desire to give up following a disaster. The challenges posed by natural disasters have led to 40% of farmers contemplating leaving the industry. Close to a quarter cited natural disaster risk and impact as the main reason.
These findings show the urgency of supporting you during and after these events. Well-structured, funded financial and emotional support will help you build resilience and continue your vital role in contributing to Australia's agricultural landscape. The entire agricultural community must create sustainable solutions to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters and ease the strain on mental health.
Other factors compounding mental health challenges
Financial pressures: Farming is often a financially unpredictable occupation, influenced by factors like weather, market prices, and global demand. The financial strain of managing these uncertainties can take a toll on farmers' mental well-being.
Isolation and loneliness: Farming can be isolating, with long hours spent working alone in rural areas. The lack of regular social interactions can lead to feelings of loneliness and contribute to mental health issues.
Stigma and taboo: Mental health remains taboo in some farming communities, preventing open discussions about struggles and seeking help. The fear of judgment can deter farmers from seeking support when facing mental health challenges.
Work-related stress: The physical demands of farming and the mental stress of managing operations and making critical decisions can result in high levels of work-related stress.
So what can you do?
Signs of depression and what to look for
If you or a farmer you know is experiencing these symptoms, please treat them seriously. Talk to someone you trust, or contact your health professional or crisis hotline for support.
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Moodiness – Frequently grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, agitated, restless, or prone to aggressive outbursts.
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Sensitivity – Intense feelings of worthlessness, more sensitive to criticism, rejection, and failure than normal.
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Aches and pains – Experiencing regular headaches, stomach aches, or digestive issues. Be sure to visit your GP to rule out medical causes first.
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Fatigue – Major changes to sleep patterns – insomnia, getting too much sleep, frequent nightmares or chronic lethargy.
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Lack of enthusiasm – Experiencing a dip in motivation and standards in daily routines, early morning milking, farm admin, socialising, hobbies, and personal hygiene.
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Eating habits – Sudden changes in eating habits, appetite, or weight.
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Excessive behaviours – Using excessive amounts of alcohol or drugs to escape feelings of self-loathing and anger.
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Trouble coping – When ongoing worries and fears affect completing everyday activities.
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Tearfulness – Regularly feeling down, overwhelmingly sad, and helpless.
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Withdrawal – Disconnecting from loved ones and the things that once brought joy.
Pasture.io: or farmers, by farmers
As farmers, we are a vital part of the wider community. We are in this together, so please don't think you need to go it alone. Reach out to your support network, and stay connected with your farming network.
At Pasture.io, we’re driven to help you navigate your farming journey with greater ease and efficiency. Farming is tough, but we’re here to support you every step of the way with our continuous innovations in pasture management and our approach to knowledge sharing.
We approach on-farm problems with your viewpoint in mind—your needs and goals are at the core—we work so that your farming life is successful and fulfilling.
Where to find mental health support
If you or a farming friend you know is struggling and needs support, please talk to each other and speak with a trusted health professional or crisis support hotline in your area.
Lifeline Australia (Australia)
Canada Suicide Prevention Service (Canada)
The Samaritans Mumbai (India)
1737 - Need to Talk? (New Zealand)
Samaritans of Singapore (Singapore)
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK (UK)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (US)
Sources:
- The Dedicated Team of Pasture.io, 2023-08-08