To those working in the agricultural sector, the causes behind poor mental health in the industry will likely not be a surprise. Workplace isolation, lone working and long and unsociable working hours are one set of factors. Combine this with financial concern, increasingly irregular weather patterns, animal disease and Brexit uncertainty, it's no surprise that farming is a stressful environment.
How to spot when someone is unwell
The NHS highlights both the psychological, physical and social symptoms of depression, which can be categorised into mild, moderate and severe. These can include (but aren’t limited to):
- Feeling irritable and intolerant of others
- Finding it difficult to make decisions
- Feeling hopeless and helpless
- Changes in appetite
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Disturbed sleep
- Avoiding social activities
- Difficulties in home and family life
How and where to get support
If you have concerns about yourself, family, friends, neighbours or colleagues, there is help available, with a focus on the agriculture and farming industry.If you are concerned about someone else’s mental health, the DPJ Foundation suggest:
A.L.G.E.EA- Ask how they are feeling
L- Listen: the most important thing you can do
G- Give reassurance
E- Encourage to get professional help.
E- Encourage self-helpYANA highlights that you can also raise concerns to the person's GP.
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