Blue Monday: Farmers should seek help when struggling with mental health
20th January 2025
Farmers have been urged to seek help when struggling with their mental health, as problems can affect anybody, and not only on Blue Monday.
Today, 20th January, marks the Blue Monday, named the ‘gloomiest day of the year’.
Blue Monday typically falls on the third Monday of January and is associated with feelings of sadness, low motivation and a lack of energy.
Even though the day has been widely criticised for its lack of scientific basis, it has become a chance for promoting mental health awareness and self-care.
Farming communities can seek help from a number of organisations that aim to support farmers and their families through difficult times.
Simply talking about your problems is often the first step towards improved mental well-being.
Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within the farming community, does not help when it comes to asking for help.
Clarkson and Copper about mental health
Clarkson’s Farm star, Kaleb Cooper, has spoken up about the importance of talking to others ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week last year.
The latest season of the show saw Jeremy Clarkson and Kaleb struggling with many issues, including unpredictable weather, crippling costs and poor yields.
The new Diddly Squat farm manager pointed out the importance of farmers sharing their struggles with others.
He said that even going to a pub for a pint can be very therapeutic for farmers who spend most of their days alone.
On his social media, Kaleb explained to his 2.3 million followers: “I firmly believe every single farmer should go to the pub maybe once a week on a rainy day like today and just chat, ‘cause in terms of mental health, it does you a world of good to talk.”
All the profits have been donated to the RABI farming charity.
TV presenter and farmer Jeremy Clarkson is also aware of the importance of supporting each other. In his newly opened pub, Mr Clarkson has been organising meetups for the farming community.
He recently published on Hawkstone’s social media: ‘We know that farming can be a struggle, especially during harvest.
‘At Hawkstone, we’re proud to back British farmers, and that means looking after their wellbeing too. So, we’ve teamed up with @giveusashoutinsta, a 24/7 text support service, to give farmers someone to talk to, no matter what they’re going through.
‘If you’re a farmer who’s finding it a bit tough, text HAWKSTONE to 85258 for free, confidential support with stress or worry.
‘Knowing when to ask for support is better than suffering in silence.’
Look after your health all year round
The head of communications and development at The Farming Community Network, Alex Phillimore, said: “This time of year can be difficult for some, from the cold and wet weather to the pressure that can come with starting a new year and planning ahead. It is important that we look after our health and wellbeing throughout the whole year and support one another.
“We encourage anyone who could benefit from a friendly chat to contact The Farming Community Network in confidence on 03000 111 999 or help@fcn.org.uk. Our volunteers understand farming life and its unique pressures and can talk to you about any worries or concerns.”
Important contacts
RABI helpline: call 0800 188 4444 or email help@rabi.org.uk
YANA helpline: call 0300 323 0400 or email helpline@yanahelp.org
FCN helpline: call 03000 111 999 or email help@fcn.org.uk
RSABI helpline: call 0808 1234 555 or email helpline@rsabi.org.uk
Forage Aid helpline: call 01926 620135 or email forageaid@addingtonfund.org.uk
