BY CAMILLA HERBIG
Supporting mentally healthy workplaces and opportunities to access support is a primary role of the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP), with agriculture a priority industry throughout the program’s 18 years.
RAMHP understands the complexity of family farming businesses and the unique way this can impact mental health.
Intergenerational relationships, combining old and new methods, and living where you work are some of the things loved most about farming, but can also provide unique stressors and impacts to mental health for some.
Additionally, isolation, fatigue, and the uncertainty of market fluctuations and extreme weather events place further stress on landholders, staff and their families.
When business often boils down to profitability and viability, it is crucial to recognise the importance of people in that equation. While the balance sheet often may not reflect it, the most valuable asset in any business is the people, so ensuring their health and safety is paramount to any effective operation.
Just like servicing and maintenance on machinery, care and welfare measures taken for livestock, and agronomic advice and inputs for crops, similar measures are critical to keep the people in the business safe and well.
Prioritising proactive strategies such as getting enough sleep, exercise, a nutritious diet, social connection and time out are crucial for maintaining good mental and physical health.
They support concentration, decision making, communication and response to stressful situations which are all vital for safety and business success, as well as the health and happiness of the individual.
Additionally, professional support is available to assist with further strategies to complement these daily practices in managing stress and mental health.
RAMHP is here to support rural communities to understand and prioritise mental health. The team of local Coordinators provide training, information and tailored advice on mental health concerns and the range of services available to assist.