Plenty of help available as we face 'Blue Monday'

Add in the challenges of farming life: wintry weather, long hours, jobs to be done, and a global pandemic; it’s no surprise that farming can feel like a lonely and isolating occupation.

Days like these remind us to take stock of our situation and admit if we need help. Here at TIAH, we’re committed to supporting mental health charities. That’s why we’re delighted to announce we will be co-chair of the mental health roundtable. Caroline Mason, Head of Agriculture, Aquaculture & Fisheries at Co-Op and chair of the mental health roundtable, said, “We’re thrilled to have TIAH’s involvement in the mental health roundtable. This roundtable brings charities and retailers together to raise awareness of the support available for food producers. Together, we look forward to actively promoting mental wellbeing for the farming community.”

There are many other ways to boost mental wellbeing, including physical exercise. #Run1000 returned for a second year, raising vital funds for mental health charities across the UK. In 2021 they raised a staggering £51,000! With teams from Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, and New Zealand, the team captains are not only competing to be crowned winners but also raise more money for their chosen charities – RSABI, DPJ Foundation, Embrace Farm, YANA, Farmstrong New Zealand, Farming Community Network, The Gamekeepers Welfare Trust and Vetlife. 

A universal issue

Most importantly, it’s essential to recognise that mental health can affect anyone at any stage of life, regardless of gender. If you or someone you know is dealing with a mental health issue, it can often impact everyday life. The Farming Community Network is a volunteer organisation that supports farmers and families. Their programme, Farmwell is a one-stop resource to help you and your farm business stay strong and resilient. They have support and advice on mental health, animal welfare, succession and more, including details of your local farming charities.  

Alex Phillimore, Head of Communications and Development with The Farming Community Network (FCN), said: “A lack of medium and long-term planning for the future of the farm business is a common issue in cases presenting to FCN. FCN’s FarmWell website (farmwell.org.uk) is a useful platform containing up-to-date information about a wide range of topics – from business planning, animal welfare, and succession to workplace safety and personal wellbeing. Taking a proactive approach to look after yourself, the farm business and the people around you can help you build resilience and manage change. We encourage people across agriculture to use FarmWell and to ask for help and support before you reach a point of crisis.”

You may find FarmWell can help you find an answer and a positive way through whatever problem you're experiencing. If not, you can contact FCN on 03000 111 999 / [email protected] – their volunteers understand farming and its pressures and are here to listen and help. Farmwell also has links to a very handy directory of all the support networks around the country – Click here for details.