Top tips to manage your mental health in challenging times

The Farming Community Network (FCN), which supports farmers and families through difficult times, has seen a shift in the types of calls to its helpline over the past 18 months. Whilst the number of calls has not increased, mental health is now a factor in the majority of calls.

FCN’s marketing and communications manager, Alex Phillimore, says that the cases are largely very complex and multifaceted – for example a problem may begin with a family disagreement, leading to financial difficulties, and therefore an increase in stress and anxiety, which occurs alongside general worries over the phase out of direct payments.

Concerns about the future and getting to grips with new policies and schemes such as ELMS, and whether farmers can stay in the industry, are among the issues being raised in conversations with FCN.

Organisations and training that can help

It is thought that not all farmers are aware of the wide range of support and training available, Alex adds: “There are a lot of charities and organisations out there, FCN being one, depending on the specific issue you’re facing but also where you’re located in the UK.”

For example, as well as FCN, farmers in Wales can also contact The DPJ Foundation, or for those concerned with livestock-related issues such as feed or bedding, Forage Aid may be able to help, or, for assistance around tenancy, housing or accommodation, the Addington Fund.

“There are lots of charities that can provide support in different ways, whether it’s pastoral support, talking, mediating family issues – which FCN can do for example – or other charities operating across the UK.”

Alex advises making yourself as aware as you can about the changes that are coming and the different schemes that are available, or going to be available. “Some farmers are more prepared than others, it’s important you have access to all the information so you can make an informed choice.”

FCN is also set to roll out some new training to assist farmers in managing change. Lots of training is available, including the Future Farming Resilience Fund, which is available online and in person from various delivery partners.

Top tips for managing stress

When it comes to some general advice for managing stress in troubled times, Alex is keen to stress that while the below top tips will not solve the complex issues many farming families are facing, they are useful in helping to manage stress levels day-to-day.

• While it may be difficult to find free time when you are working very long hours, it is important to make sure you take a break when you can and make time for hobbies without feeling guilty. You may feel you’re not being productive if you’re taking a break, but it’s better to make time for yourself to avoid burn out.
• Socialise when you can. It can be a good idea to set up a WhatsApp group with your friends and check on people around you. When you’re in busy periods, you might go a few days without talking to anyone, so having a network of people you can check in with is important.
• Know that there are organisations that are happy to talk things through – not every call to FCN is from someone in crisis, sometimes it may just be someone having a bad day and wanting a chat. The charity advocates for people to get in touch before things reach a ‘crisis’ point – often early intervention can stop issues spiralling out of control.
• Stay physically active – farmers in general are physically active but doing actual physical exercise is good for mental health. Similarly, eating well and having a good diet is important.
• Making lists can be useful – some people don’t write things down and instead keep it all in their heads but getting it down on paper allows you to prioritise. You can choose five items that need to be done right now, and decide to leave the rest for another day. This allows you to take control and avoid getting overwhelmed with a large list of tasks rattling around in your head.

If you are struggling with your mental health or feeling stressed about your business, the future or any other issue, there are many organisations that can help you. Below is a list of some of the options:

• Farming Community Network helpline: 03000 111 999/help@fcn.org.uk
• Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution helpline: 0800 188 4444
• The DPJ Foundation: Call: 0800 587 4262/text: 07860048799
• Forage Aid helpline: 07967219991
• Addington Fund: 01926 620135

For further information on Defra’s Future Farming Resilience Fund, CLICK HERE.