The plight of our farmers and their struggles with mental health has been in the spotlight in recent times as rural communities struggle with increasing pressures bought about by unprecedented challenges.
Inflation, cost-of-living pressures, flooding, climate change, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and those living in rural communities.
In an effort to give greater support to the mental health needs and wellbeing of the rural community, Australia Beyond Blue has partnered with Zoetis Inc, the world’s largest producer of medicine and vaccinations for livestock and pets, to champion mental health initiatives.
Over the last eight years the company has provided $800,000 in assistance, and aims to raise a further $100,000 this 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 goes beyond 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,” he 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.
“To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service”.
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.
The unseen number in these statistics is that close to half of Australia’s farmers have experienced thoughts of self-harm or suicide, with feelings of loneliness and limited access to mental health services compounding these challenges.
Corowa farmer and Beyond Blue board member, Derek Schoen, said that although country people are resilient and tough, the many challenges they face can take a toll on their mental health.
“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses, so I would encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early,” he said.
Anyone requiring urgent help can call Beyond Blue 1300 224 636, Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
