Farming has always been a challenging profession but right now, many in the industry are experiencing an unprecedented level of pressure. Between financial uncertainty, exhausting workloads, and the isolation that comes with rural life, mental health concerns are at an all-time high.
The Toughest Times in Farming
This is one of the toughest periods in recent memory for many farmers, with several major challenges adding to the strain. Financial uncertainty is a key concern, with changes to government subsidies and tax policies creating instability. Difficult weather conditions have led to poor yields, worsening financial worries. The latest setback came when applications for the Sustainable Farming Scheme were abruptly closed, leaving many without access to crucial funding until next year and uncertain about what will replace it.
At this time of year, the relentless workload, moving from lambing and calving straight into spring planting, can leave many farmers physically and mentally exhausted, making it more important than ever to look after your mental wellbeing.
Mental Health Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone—many farmers face similar struggles, and support is available. Taking care of your well-being is essential, and reaching out can be the first step toward better mental health. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, or a charity, asking for help can be difficult, but it’s also the most important step. There are many charities and online resources ready to support you when you need them.
Farming Community Network (FCN)
The Farming Community Network is a voluntary organisation and charity. It supports farmers, agricultural workers and families within the farming community.
FCN can help with a variety of issues, including:
- Animal health and welfare issues.
- Mental health issues, such as depression, stress and isolation.
- Physical health issues, such as long-term illness and accidents.
- Family matters, such as retirement, succession, relationship breakups, and making a will.
You can call the Freephone helpline 03000 111 999 to talk to someone between 7am-11pm. You can also email: help@fcn.org.uk.
For more information, visit www.fcn.org.uk.
Mind
Mind provides advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Information is available about where to get help, medication and alternative treatments.
You can call Mind between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) on 0300 123 3393. You can also text to 86463, or email info@mind.org.uk.
Visit www.mind.org.uk/ to find out more.
PAPYRUS
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. The charity works with young people – and anybody concerned for a young person – to help keep them safe from suicide.
Their HOPELINE247 is a confidential support and advice service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide.
Contact HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141 or by text on 88247
For more information, visit https://www.papyrus-uk.org/
Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI)
RABI is a national charity. It provides local support to the farming community across Wales and England. Established in 1860, RABI has supported farming people of all ages for generations.
RABI offers:
- Financial help
- Practical support
- Confidential advice
- Access to free, anonymous, professional counselling
Call the Freephone helpline on 0800 188 4444, or e-mail: help@rabi.org.uk
For more information, visit www.rabi.org.uk
Samaritans
You can contact the Samaritans 24 hours a day, every day, from any phone, even a mobile without credit. Call the helpline free on 116123 to talk to someone.
If you would like emotional support in Welsh, we have a Welsh Language Line. It is free to call every day 7pm-11pm. Call us on 0808 164 0123
These numbers won’t show up on your phone bill.
Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org.
The Addington Fund
The Addington Fund is a charity for farmers and their families. In times of emergency and when hardship prevails, they may be able to provide disaster relief to farmers on a national, regional and individual basis.
The charity also provides homes for families, who have to leave their farms through no fault of their own and are at risk of becoming homeless.
Contact the helpline on 01926 620135.
For more information, visit www.addingtonfund.org.uk
The DPJ Foundation
The DPJ Foundation supports people in agriculture and rural communities in Wales with mental health problems. The charity provides specific local counselling through the ‘Share the Load’ initiative and mental health awareness bespoke training.
Call the Freephone helpline on 0800 587 4262, or text 07860 048799.
For more information, visit www.thedpjfoundation.co.uk
Tir Dewi
Tir Dewi is a charity supporting Welsh farmers and their families. A network of volunteers is available to
- Listen and offer complete confidentiality.
- Help prioritise and solve problems.
- Put farmers in touch with partner organisations who can offer specific help with an array of complex problems.
Call the Freephone helpline 0800 121 4722, or email mail@tirdewi.co.uk
For more information visit www.tirdewi.co.uk
We are Farming Minds
This is a Herefordshire based charity which has been set up to raise awareness for mental health and wellness in the farming community. They hold events, talks, and training for those in need, and were founded by a farmer who, having struggled with their own mental health issues, wanted to make a difference for others in the same position.
Contact the support line on 0808 802 0070 or text 07786 203 130
For more information visit https://www.wearefarmingminds.co.uk/
Help is out there, and no one should face these challenges alone. Simply talking about your problems is often the first step towards improved mental wellbeing.
