Article Summary: The numbers don't lie. Farming faces a greater problem, with farmers’ mental health at greater risk than ever within our community. Rising costs of operation and living, political uncertainty, isolation, and climate concerns make this a problem that’s growing globally. This article looks at the situation in Australia, the UK and greater Europe and where to get help if you or a farmer you know is struggling. Left unaddressed, these challenges can lead to higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts. Raising awareness about mental health in the farming industry is essential to break the stigma and encourage support.
The numbers don't lie. Farming faces a greater problem, with farmers’ mental health at greater risk than ever within our community.
Rising costs of operation and living, political uncertainty, isolation, and climate concerns make this a problem that’s growing globally.
As farmers, we tend to refrain from denying or minimising our difficulties, which prevents us from reaching out for help. And, unlike other professions, we simply do not think of giving ourselves the slightest respite. A farmer is the last person to worry about themself; our animals and farm come first.
And as we’ve covered before, a farmer's physical and mental health directly impacts their ability to manage their farm effectively and make informed decisions.
In addition, the mental health challenges farmers face can have severe consequences for their well-being and safety. Left unaddressed, these challenges can lead to higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts. It is essential to raise awareness about mental health in the farming industry to break the stigma and provide resources for support.
Australia’s bid to curb grim statistics
In Australia, farmers are 94% more likely to commit suicide than non-farmers, meaning that, on average, one farmer loses their life every ten days.
In response to this crisis, the Australian Government, in partnership with UniSA, has recently launched Taking Stock, an online well-being and suicide prevention tool. It’s free to access, with help available 24 hours a day, and most importantly, designed especially for Australia’s farmers, with input from farming communities and support services.
This innovative web-based tool includes helpful resources, including videos, interviews, podcasts and useful information for connecting and engaging with communities for early intervention and medical assistance.
European and British farming communities are struggling with mental health, too
According to a recent survey of British farmers via the NFU, the soaring production costs over the past 18 months have taken a toll on the mental health of farmers and food producers in the UK. Over 68% of farmers reported that escalating input costs, including energy, fuel, and fertiliser, have negatively affected their well-being.
The survey also revealed that 61% of farmers feel the supply chain's unfairness has had a detrimental impact on their mental health, while almost 50% cited rural crime as a source of stress and anxiety. Incidents like tractor GPS thefts have increased, adding to farmers' concerns.
To address these challenges, the NFU published the data ahead of a parliamentary event to prioritise the mental health of the nation's food producers. MPs will engage in dialogue to raise awareness, provide much-needed assistance, and make mental health a crucial focus for farmers and food producers in the UK.
In Europe, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine war add to these challenges, with the EURACTIV media network reporting that mental health issues in farmers across the continent are becoming more of a concern, with many countries not doing enough to support their farmers. With the exception of France, Germany and Austria, countries like Poland, Greece, Romania and Bulgaria offer little to no support to farmers’ mental health.
Addressing mental health in the farming industry is a global responsibility. By acknowledging the challenges farmers face, promoting mental health awareness, and providing accessible support services, we, as a planet, should be working towards improving the well-being of farmers and preventing suicide. Together, we should create a farming community where mental health is prioritised and supported, fostering resilience, strength, and a brighter future for farmers worldwide. We hope to see more developments in this global cause and will report it as we learn more.
Signs of depression and what to look for
The issue of detection is central to prevention. If you or a farmer you know is experiencing any of 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 – Are you frequently grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, agitated, restless, or prone to aggressive outbursts?
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Aches and pains – Are you experiencing continuous headaches, stomach aches, or digestive issues? Visiting your GP to rule out medical causes first is a good idea.
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Fatigue – Are there major changes to your sleep patterns? Are you suffering from insomnia or getting too much sleep? So you have frequent nightmares or chronic lethargy?
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Lack of enthusiasm – You might experience a dip in motivation and standards for your daily routine, early morning jobs, admin, hobbies, and personal hygiene.
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Sensitivity – Do you have intense feelings of worthlessness, and are you more sensitive to criticism, rejection, and failure than normal?
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Tearfulness – Do you regularly feel down, overwhelmingly sad, and helpless?
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Withdrawal – Have you begun disconnecting from loved ones and the things you once enjoyed?
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Eating habits – Have you noticed a sudden change in eating habits, appetite, or weight?
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Excessive behaviours – Are you looking to alcohol or drugs to escape feelings of self-loathing and anger?
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Trouble coping – Are your ongoing worries and fears affecting your everyday activities and enjoyment of life?
If you or a loved one needs support, please 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:
We are a vital part of the community and are in this together. You don't need to go it alone. Reach out to your support network, and stay connected with your farming network.
Until we meet again, Safe Farming!
- The Dedicated Team of Pasture.io, 2023-08-03