Farmers are twice as likely to suicide but half as likely to have visited a GP or mental health professional in the past 12 months, compared with other professions, research shows.
To help combat this, a new University of SA study has researchers looking to determine what farmers want in terms of mental health support.
UniSA researcher Donna Hughes-Barton says it is vital to hear from farmers to understand how best to support their mental health.
"Farmers face multiple barriers to accessing mainstream physical and mental health care," she said.
"There are fewer face-to-face services in rural areas, which means it can be difficult for farmers to access mental health support.
"We also know from our previous research that distrust can be a problem when farmers feel that health professionals do not always understand life on the land.
"Farmers are very adept problem-solvers, and while this a great quality to have in a practical sense, they tend to 'tough it out' when it comes to their mental health, rather than reaching out for support from others."
Dr Hughes-Barton said while there was an increased focus on trying to raise farmer awareness about the importance of asking for help, there was still a gap in the research about what farmers need and would respond to, when it comes to mental health and wellbeing support services.
"This study aims to fill this gap," she said.
"We want to know what farmers do when they're experiencing stress, and they've maxed out their coping strategies and support from friends and family.
"We also want to know what support mechanisms farmers would be prepared to engage with once they have reached this point."
Led by Associate Professor Kate Gunn and the ifarmwell team at UniSA, the study is supported by National Farmers Federation, the National Centre for Farmer Health, and Lifeline Australia.
Dr Hughes-Barton said the team was passionate about developing and delivering services, based on what farmers wanted and needed.
"Farmers' voices are at the centre of our work, and that's why we're inviting farmers to have their say in how supports and services for them are developed and delivered in the future," she said.
The anonymous survey takes 20 minutes to do, and all farmers, farm workers and members of farming families are invited to have their say.
To complete the survey now, please visit bit.ly/3PLC5nI
- Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; beyondblue 1300 224 636.
