Poor mental health and suicide in rural and farming communities is sadly an increasing problem and one that we made a commitment to tackle, writes Bryn Francis.

In 2017 the FUW made a promise to keep the spotlight on mental health issues for as long as it remains a problem in rural communities.

Yes, there is much more awareness of the mental health issues in society at large and particularly in the agriculture sector but much work remains to be done, especially as farmers have always been the kind of people who just get on with stuff, rather than sharing the problems they might have.

Nobody can deny that over the last 10 years things have changed dramatically, and as wonderful as it is being online, it is very different from being face to face with people.

We moved very quickly into a world where we’re run by social media and we’re living very isolated lives.

The social aspect of agriculture has changed and whilst we are ironically much more connected than we used to be, in many ways we are more alone.

We are now approaching the fourth year of awareness raising and doing everything it takes to help break the stigma, and as part of that effort the Union is hosting a virtual All Wales Mental Health Conference on Friday 9 October 2020, ahead of World Mental Health Day.

The aim of the All Wales Mental health conference is two-fold - the morning session (10.30 - 12.30 pm) will explore the wider context of poor mental health in rural communities and what steps need to be taken by Government, decision makers and policy shapers.

The afternoon session (2pm-4pm) will take a more practical approach and hear from various dedicated mental health charities offering hands-on advice for those who are supporting a loved one going through mental issues as well as those who are currently experiencing poor mental health.