As farmers across the country are faced with tough seasons affected by weather conditions such as lack of rain and frost, Grain Producers Australia is encouraging everyone to engage with their networks and check in with the people around them.
This World Mental Health Day (October 10), the United Nations is highlighting the connection between mental health and work, and farming is a prime example of just how closely tied these concepts are for growers and their workforce who often live and breathe their work.
GPA Chair and Western Australian grower Barry Large said GPA was very aware of how tough conditions are for some and the weight this would be putting on people’s shoulders.
“Frosts have ravaged parts of South Australia and Victoria and growers are faced with decisions about whether crops are harvested, cut for hay, or left in the paddock,” he said.
“Many parts of the country have experienced seasons with late starts, hardly any rain compared to normal and we’re now staring down the barrel of a harvest for crops that may be sub-standard.
“I say enough how important it is that we’re there for each other and know where to go and how to access help if things are becoming all too much.”
GPA has been working long and hard through the Farmer Mates Mental Health Program, with the support of key partners Nufarm, RuralAid, GrainGrowers, Lifeline and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), to break down stigma and increase awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.
Mr Large said this program was essential for the future of all rural communities to ensure a sustainable and strong agricultural industry.
“Managing a farm extends beyond the day-to-day of running a business,” he said.
“Mental health and wellbeing conversations should be prioritised and we want to normalise talking about what we’re going through.
“Our communities collectively band together in tough times, but farmers have the tendency to knuckle down and work harder when things aren’t going well.
“Our farming communities already have the tight-knit supports in place to be there for each other and through programs like GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health Initiative, we can provide the knowledge and resources needed for strong foundations.”
IMPORTANT RESOURCES
Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Team HERE
GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health initiative HERE
Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14
Mental Health and Wellbeing Team intake line 1300 17 55 94 - Head Office 1300 327 624
ENDS
Further Information:
GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023
GPA Executive Officer Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193
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