Agricultural advisor Savills has partnered with rural mental health charity YANA to help spread the word about the importance of looking after your wellbeing.
The firm’s food and farming consultants in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Norfolk will be handing out leaflets and other materials – including car stickers and an air freshener to keep in tractor cabs – as part of their regular client visits.
Matt Riddington, from the food and farming team at Savills Cambridge, will also be taking a two-day mental health first aid course with YANA in July.
He said: “Farming or working in the countryside is usually a good way of life but it is a demanding and stressful occupation. So, it’s not surprising that many people involved with agriculture can feel isolated, depressed or unable to cope as well as normal.
“YANA does great work across the region and we’re delighted to be raising awareness of such a worthwhile cause. We have already started to hand put the packs and they have been very well received.
“I’m very excited to be attending the mental health training – it’s an area that I feel very strongly about and it will be great to be able to provide further assistance to anyone who might need it. The sector is experiencing significant changes and its imperative that anyone feeling any concerns is able to access the care required.”
YANA – which stands for You Are Not Alone – offers specific help for those involved with farming or other rural businesses in East Anglia and Worcestershire, providing confidential support and counselling, building understanding of mental health and investing in mental health first aid training and suicide prevention.
Emma Haley, YANA Charity Manager, added: “ One in four people in the UK will experience poor mental health so it is important to know that you, or the person you are concerned about, are not alone.
“Those who work in farming and other rural businesses are often reluctant to seek support for depression, stress or anxiety. However, talking about your problems and seeking appropriate help can make it easier to cope and improves your quality of life.
“If you are involved with farming or another rural business in any way and are feeling low, or if you are worried about a member of your family, a colleague or a friend, please do get in touch. You can call our confidential helpline on 0300 323 0400 or email helpline@yanahelp.org.”