Time off-farm vital for better mental health

Taking a break from work without fear of judgement is one of the culture changes needed in the farming industry, according to a new study into issues of rural loneliness and mental health.

The University of Exeter’s Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR) and national charity The Farming Community Network (FCN) found long hours, working alone and feeling undervalued and disconnected from the wider public are among key factors causing problems such as depression and anxiety.

The study recommended improving support to farmers, including continued investment in rural broadband, further education and outreach to help the public understand farming and its challenges, and normalising taking time off-farm and finding a healthy work-life balance.

The recommendations followed interviews with 22 farming families and six farm support workers in England. They revealed a heavy workload, resulting in little time for socialising, relaxing or spending time with families, was leading to farmers feeling unappreciated and isolated.

FCN chief executive Dr Jude McCann said: “There is a need for a culture change that not only permits farmers to feel they can take a break from work without fear of judgement, but actively promotes it as an essential part of managing a farm business.

“Taking a break from the farm or having a rest from work is not a waste of time. The truth is it’s one of the most productive things you can do.

“Farmers told us they are expected to be resilient and that admitting they are struggling would be an admission of failure, of somehow not being a ‘good farmer’. This prevented people seeking help. We need to encourage a positive farm-life balance.”

Dr Rebecca Wheeler from the CRPR added: “Farmers are facing a multitude of challenges and many told us about how they are struggling to find the time to socialise or take a break.

“We need to do more to celebrate the work farmers do in producing food and managing our countryside and support them in making positive changes.”

FIND: The study recommended outreach to help the public better understand farming.