Partnership reflects importance of farmers’ mental health

FARMERS just roll on through both good and bad times, but for some it becomes overwhelming as they struggle with all the variables that can compound to create a great deal of anxiety.

Farming is not a 9-5 job – being responsible for livestock, crops, fodder preparation along with a myriad of other tasks means farmers can rarely turn off.

In recent years, Australians in rural and regional areas have faced unprecedented challenges that have taken a toll on mental health and well-being.

Factors such as inflation, cost-of-living pressures, climate change, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and rural communities.

Recognising the critical need for support, leading animal health company Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to again champion mental health initiatives in rural Australia.

With a commitment of $800,000 over the past eight years, Zoetis has been a steadfast supporter of Beyond Blue’s vital services, which have seen more than 300,000 individuals reach out for assistance in 2023 alone.

In 2024, Zoetis has set a goal to raise an additional $100,000 by the end of the year by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig, and poultry vaccines and drenches.

Zoetis senior vice-president for Australia and New Zealand Lance Williams said the partnership with Beyond Blue was more than just financial support.

“It’s about fostering a culture of hope and resilience, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges know they are not alone, and that help is available.”

More than 3.4 million people in Australia are dealing with anxiety or depression, and nearly half of the population will face mental health issues in their lifetime.

Not only are Australians living in rural and remote areas disproportionately affected by stress and anxiety, getting access to services is significantly harder due to attitudinal, financial, and digital barriers.

Derek Schoen, a Corowa farmer and Beyond Blue board member, emphasised the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity.

“Country people are resilient and tough, but the many challenges we face can take a toll on our mental health,” Mr Schoen said.

“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses and I would encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early.”

According to research from the National Farmers Federation, nearly a third of farmers have reported a decline in their mental health, citing weather-related disasters (47 per cent), financial stress (36 per cent), and inflation and cost pressures (35 per cent) as top contributors.

Alarmingly, close to half of Australian farmers have experienced thoughts of self-harm or suicide, with feelings of loneliness and limited access to mental health services compounding these challenges.

Beyond Blue’s Support Service have been instrumental in providing a lifeline to those in distress.

After contacting the service, a significant majority of individuals reported feeling heard, understood, and less distressed, highlighting the positive impact of early intervention and support.

The journey to mental health is a collective effort that relies on a foundation of compassion, understanding, and support.

Support can be given in many ways, including lending a listening ear.

Mr Williams said every act of kindness, no matter how seemingly small, carries immense significance.

“Whether it’s a simple check-in with a neighbour, a supportive conversation with a friend, or a compassionate gesture towards a work colleague, these actions contribute to building a community where mental health is prioritised and stigma is dismantled.”

If you need immediate help, phone Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, headspace on 1800 650 890 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636