High level of farmers experience stress and have twice the level of 'likely depression'

Farmers face the twice the level of 'likely depression' than the general population and high levels of stress associated with farm work, according to recent research. 

Irish research using a validated survey has indicated that farmers have poorer wellbeing than the general population and have approximately twice the level of ‘likely depression’ (6% vs 3%) than the general population.   

Mental health can be impacted by conditions prevailing in farming such as weather, climate change, prices, or financial concerns.

Teagasc’s National Farm Survey (NFS) study indicates that in 2018, 57% of farmers reported experiencing stress resulting from their farm work. This webinar will provide participants with the opportunity to reflect on how they manage their physical and mental health in addition to providing practical tips along the way.  

Teagasc will mark World Mental Health Day on Tuesday, 10 October by hosting a Webinar entitled:  “Maintaining your Mental Health in Farming” 10.00 -11.00am; farm safety issues associated with mental health will also be considered.  

The Webinar will be chaired by Ms Finola Colgan, Development Officer, Mental Health Ireland.  Speaking in advance of the webinar, Ms Colgan stated:  “Virtually everyone faces a mental health challenge at some point in their lives, so it is vital that we have the resources to deal with such a challenge”.   

Webinar Speakers’ include: Dr Denis O’Hora, Lecturer in the School of Psychology, University of Galway will address the psychological challenges to mental health and safety to farmers, who are mainly autonomous workers with high job demands.

Farmer and Mental Health Advocate, George Graham, will outline his journey with mental health and approaches to maintaining mental health and safety particularly tailored for farmers.  

Dr Diana van Doorn, Post-Doctoral Fellow at Teagasc will explore the links between occupational stress, wellbeing and cardiovascular health, measured as part of the Farmers Have Hearts – Cardiovascular Health Programme.  

Dr John McNamara and Francis Bligh, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialists will outline advisory supports available to aid farmers to maintain positive mental health through farm management.  

A Q and A Session, chaired by Ms Finola Colgan, Mental Health Ireland, will follow the presentations.  

The Webinar is a public event and is free of charge.   Those interested in Mental Health among farmers are most welcome to register. 

To register for this webinar click on this link: https://www.teagasc.ie/news-- events/national-events/events/ maintaining-mental-health-and- safety-in-challenging-time.php