Farmer in Oxfordshire highlights stigma in talking about mental health
Oxfordshire famer says mental health in agriculture needs to be taken seriously
A farmer in Oxfordshire says there’s a stigma in agriculture which prevents people from talking about their mental health.
Some research suggests farmers have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to the general population.
The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show there were 36 suicides recorded in England and Wales among those working in the farming and agricultural industry in 2021.
Anthony Henman is an arable farmer near Islip, he said: “Mental health in farming is terrible, it needs to be taken seriously. I’m always reading about, and hearing about people taking their own life and it's very sad to hear that.
“We're all a close community and most farmers know each other, I know farmers who live counties and counties away.”
Mr Henman also highlights there is a real stigma, he says, “mental health checks should be mandatory.
“We're very proud and people and I know men in particular, it's bad enough to go see the doctor, let alone talk about mental health, then you add into the equation that you're a farmer and it just makes it even worse.”
He also tells us about some of the issues affecting those working agriculture sector which make it difficult for people’s mental health.
“There's always something churning over in the back of your mind, and it's very hard for farmers to juggle a good work, life, home and family balance. Getting that balance is very difficult because we can never switch off”, Mr Henman said.
He added: “I think getting out with your friends and discussing these things is probably one of the best things you could ever do when it comes to mental health, but I don't get out enough."