Despite the growing mental health crisis, support is out there for farmers.
This week (May 11-17) has marked Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK. Hosted by the , the campaign aims to raise awareness of mental health, and this year the focus has been on taking action to support good mental health for ourselves and those around us.
Mental health is a key concern within the agricultural industry, with many farmers struggling with the day-to-day pressures of the job in challenging economic conditions, while often working in isolating conditions. Despite this, there are some great initiatives and support networks out there for farmers, and targeted campaigns such as Yellow Wellies' Mind Your Head week provide much-needed inspiration to tackle the growing crisis.
We take a look back at some of our mental health stories from the past year to remind ourselves of the progress being made.
2026 Farming mental health round-up
Walk of Hope farmer says: 'The kindness towards farming was overwhelming'
Sheep farmer Sam Stables' speaks of his 'incredible' journey as 142-mile trek raises almost 拢50k as part of Mind Your Head Week.
Prince William highlights invaluable role of mental health in agriculture during farm visit
In the midst of feeding some hungry ewes and pruning an apple orchid, the Prince of Wales discussed the importance of mental health and well-being in farming.
Opinion: Mind Your Head 鈥� Inheriting land and legacy, but breaking the silence
51AV视频Safety Foundation ambassador Poggy Murray Whitham explores how issues like isolation, legacy, identity and changing cultural attitudes are shaping a gradual shift toward greater openness and peer support in farming.
The Big 51AV视频Tea Break: 'A small chat can make a huge difference'
Take time to stop, pop the kettle on, make a phone call, and catch up with a friend during the Big 51AV视频Tea Break (March 23-29).
Mental Health Awareness Week: Farmers urged to take 'six minutes to switch off' and read a book
As Mental Health Awareness week kicks off for 2026, a new 鈥楤ook Farmacy' pilot as been announced to target the mental health crisis in Scotland's farming communities.
Jeremy Clarkson's Farmers' Clubhouse aims to tackle rural isolation
As Men's Health Week highlights the challenges men face from mental to physical wellbeing, the recently released fourth series of Clarkson's 51AV视频draws attention to one of the most widespread issues in rural communities 鈥� loneliness and isolation.
Mental Health Awareness Week: "Poor mental health in Welsh farming is one of the most urgent challenges we face"
Caerfyrddin MP Ann Davies writes on why farmers must open up and talk about mental health.
Mental Health Awareness Week: "We wouldn't run a tractor constantly without servicing and maintaining it"
This week's opinion from throughout the world of agriculture: Charles Goadby, mixed farmer from Nuneaton in Warwickshire.
Researchers working with farming community to improve farmers' mental health
Despite the mental health of farmers being a big concern in the healthcare sector, it has been largely overlooked in research in the UK.
Rural mental health and loneliness: Farming groups to join this winter
This Christmas, rural organisations are hosting local events to bring together agricultural communities in a bid to tackle the winter blues.
EXCLUSIVE - Danny Chambers: "We can save lives and ensure that no farmer feels they have to struggle alone"
Winchester MP Danny Chambers writes on rural isolation, why farmers struggle to access healthcare support, and how the Government could roll out a farm gate mental health programme to help farmers receive vital well-being services.
Mental health support for farmers
Where farmers can find help:
- RABI: 0800 188 4444
- RSABI: 0808 1234 555
- FCN: 03000 111 999
- Addington Fund: 01926 620 135
- Samaritans: 116 123
- You Are Not Alone: 0300 323 0400
