Mental Health in the Industry
Mental health conditions are prevalent in many regional and rural communities, including in the agriculture industry, yet many people are still hesitant to openly discuss it. This has never been truer as we all try to navigate our way through this Pandemic.
The nature of the agriculture industry can result in factors that lead to increased risk of experiencing mental health issues, including isolation, environmental factors such as natural disasters and ongoing drought and the stresses associated with tough economic conditions.
These stressors, combined with the stigma associated with discussing mental health conditions, can have negative effects on an individual’s mental health. Now with a second spike of COVID-19, Metropolitan Melbourne is once again in lockdown, and now more than ever, it’s important that we look after ourselves and those close to us.
There are a number of resources available on the AusVeg website. For those who feel they may need help, please see the below information:
Beyond Blue
Anxiety, depression or suicide visit: www.beyondblue.org.au
To chat to a trained mental health professional, see: www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support
Call: 1300 22 4636 (24 hours/7 days a week)
Lifeline
Call 13 11 14
The online Crisis Support Chat service is also available every night at lifeline.org.au/crisischat
I Farm Well
Dedicated to helping farmers through everyday problems
For more information and to register, visit www.ifarmwell.com.au |