Working in agriculture is not an easy job. It’s a far cry from the average 9-5. From the unsociable hours and physical hard work to having to rely on so many external factors such as the weather, or milk prices.
It can feel very unpredictable. For that reason, you might be some what reluctant to talk about your stresses or speak you mind when it comes to work.
You might feel as though nobody will understand the things you go through, but that’s not always true.
That’s why we, at Genus ABS, have partnered with #LendAHand, who work to support and aid the lives of our farmers and their families.
The expression, ‘it’s good to talk’, is often used, and for good reason. Talking not only frees your mind of the busy, racing thoughts you might have, but it also helps you to realise that you’re not alone in your struggles.
Expressing your worries out loud can help put things into perspective, often you’ll find that some things aren’t quite as bad as you had thought. Talking helps to prevent your mind from catastrophising certain things.
If your stress is farm related, consider meeting a colleague, or fellow farmer friend at a calming setting, just to discuss work-related issues.
We’re often surprised to learn that other people are going through very similar experiences, and that shared identity helps.
You may feel as though you have nobody to talk to, and that’s okay too. Several specific charities exist to support people from agricultural backgrounds with their mental health.
The DPJ Foundation has a 24 hour helpline, The Farming Community Network (FCN) offers free, confidential, pastoral and practical support to anyone who needs help, and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) offer confidential support to anyone currently working within agriculture and also to those who are no longer able to work due to ill-health, accident or age.
Remember, it’s important to talk. It’s important to take care of your own mental well-being.
Start today, reach out to somebody.
01270 616681