This October, as we release a new video clip on the Welfare and Wellbeing section of our website, we are thinking about looking after ourselves and looking out for our colleagues, family, friends, clients and neighbours.
A kind conversation or simple check-in can make all the difference to someone's day or week.
Farming is about care: for the land, for the livestock, and it should also be about caring for yourselves and each other, as you are the essential cog that makes it all happen.
Mental health and wellbeing is about the way we think and feel, and our ability to deal with the ups and downs of life. We should treat mental health just like we treat physical health and recognise that we should invest time and energy into maintaining it.
Looking after our mental wellbeing has a direct link to being able to maintain our physical health as well.
When we enjoy good mental health, we have a sense of purpose and direction, the energy to do the things we want to do, and the ability to deal with the challenges that happen in our lives. When we have good mental health, it enables us to invest time and energy in taking care of our own physical health and the welfare of our livestock too.
Mental health issues are a normal part of life.
In any one year, approximately one in four of us experience at least one mental health issue. Mental health and wellbeing, just like our physical health, can vary from day to day. Issues can appear as a result of experiences in both our personal and working lives, or they can simply happen.
Mental health issues do not discriminate. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, geography, income, social status, sexual orientation or any other aspect of cultural identity.
It is important to create a culture in farming that promotes positive mental health and wellbeing and encourages open conversations to normalise the topic.
One of the key ways to do this is to put aside time each day to check in with each other and ensure everyone can comfortably talk about mental health and wellbeing. Make the effort to connect with colleagues and ensure the team works together to look out for each other.
You do not need to be an expert to make a difference. A simple, 'How are things really?' can start a conversation that matters and help your colleagues feel listened to and seen. Talk with each other about daily challenges and listen.
If you are concerned about someone:
- Be observant. Small changes in behaviour or communication can be a sign of stress.
- Listen without judgement. Sometimes, being heard is enough to ease the weight.
- Learn how to provide support, including knowing how to spot the warning signs and being confident in signposting colleagues to the support available.
- Know where to signpost. Sharing details of where to find the right support can make a difference.
Support Available
If you or someone you know is struggling, these charities offer free and confidential support tailored to farming and rural communities:
- RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution), providing financial, practical and emotional support, plus a free online wellbeing platform.
- Farming Community Network (FCN), offering a helpline on 03000 111 999 from 7am to 11pm daily and local volunteers who understand farming life.
Don't forget to visit our web pages under the Welfare and Wellbeing section to watch the video case studies and find further links to charities and organisations that provide help and support specifically for the farming community.
