Poor mental health is the biggest danger facing farmers today, say those working in the industry.
Yellow Wellies - or the Farm Safety Foundation to give it is official name - has spoken to hundreds of farmers and agricultural workers and is now raising awareness of the issues through its ‘Mind Your Head’ campaign, which is running this week.
In 2018 there were 83 suicides among people working in agricultural and related trades in England and Wales. Threats to mental health include so-called ‘smiling depression’, post traumatic stress disorder, loneliness, and rural isolation.
‘The farming industry faces many stress factors, which are placing increasing pressure on workers and putting them at greater risk of mental ill health,’ said a spokesperson for the Foundation.
‘These include extended amounts of time working in isolation, a blurring between work and home life, and financial uncertainty. Brexit, changing consumer habits, and the climate crisis present further threats to the industry.’
During Mind Your Head Week and beyond, farmers are being encouraged to talk about mental health and seek help if they need, as well as look out for friends and neighbours.
’One of the most effective methods in combating stigma is talking about it,’ said Stephanie Berkeley of the Farm Safety Foundation.
’This is on our watch and, in these challenging times, it’s down to each and every one of us to look out for our friends, colleagues, neighbours and ourselves.’
Those seeking more information on how to tackle poor mental health in the industry can visit the Farm Safety Foundation’s website www.yellowwellies.org and social media channels, where they can access stories, advice and services.