As farmers, we pride ourselves on being resilient. It's part of the job and part of who we are. But resilience shouldn't mean facing everything alone and Mind Your Head Week is an important reminder of that.
Farming is a rewarding way of life. We produce food for the nation, care for the countryside and work in a sector built on community. Yet it remains one of the most demanding professions, with long hours, financial uncertainty and pressures that can build slowly and quietly over time.
Mind Your Head Week
It's no surprise that almost a quarter of farmers say their mental health has changed in recent years, or that 94% of young farmers recognise that poor mental health is one of the most significant hidden issues in agriculture. And the public understands this too, as RABI research has shown overwhelming support for the idea that farmers shouldn't have to sacrifice their mental health to produce food and look after the environment.
But recognition alone isn't enough. We all have a role to play in looking out for ourselves and each other. Sometimes the pressures creep up on us without us noticing and it's only when we step away that we realise how much we needed the break.
Taking five minutes in a quiet spot on-farm, getting off the land for a change of scenery or simply talking to someone you trust can make all the difference.
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Talking is a sign of strength, not weakness, and acknowledging our stress is far better than burying it. So, I urge you to look after your head and your heart as well as you look after everything else on the farm. Together we can build a culture where speaking up, checking in and supporting one another becomes routine and make sure that no-one in our community ever feels like they have to carry the load on their own.
Essential contacts
- In England and Wales, RABI's free helpline is available 24 hours a day through calling 0800 188 4444 or an online webchat is available at rabi.org.uk.
- In Scotland, RSABI's free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 or through a confidential webchat service available at rsabi.org.uk
- The Farming Community Network helpline is available on 03000 111 999. Calls will be answered in person from 7am-11pm every day of the year
- If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:
- For confidential support, Samaritans can be contacted for free, around-the-clock, 365 days a year on 116 123
- NHS Inform 24 mental health hub: 111 (Available 24/7)
- If you do not feel you can keep yourself safe right now, please seek immediate help by attending any Accident and Emergency (A&E) or contact 999 and request an ambulance
