Farming Alone: The Hidden Struggles of Mental Health in Agriculture

In 2021, at the age of 50, I embarked on a lifelong dream by investing in a farm on the Fylde Coast in Lancashire, managing 64 acres with sheep, pigs, and goats. The initial excitement was soon overshadowed by unforeseen challenges—rising costs, unpredictable markets, and the relentless demands of farming—that strained my resources and halted many planned projects.

In November 2023, seeking a fresh start, I relocated to a new farm in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. This move, while filled with promise, presented its own set of challenges. Transitioning away from my lifelong home in Lancashire meant leaving behind a strong network of friends and contacts. The isolation of rural life became more pronounced, with weeks passing without face-to-face interaction. Farming is inherently demanding, and being a first-generation farmer adds layers of complexity. The financial pressures are relentless, with rising operational costs and modest returns on livestock and crops.

Compounding these challenges was the responsibility of caring for a dear friend battling cancer. Balancing the demands of establishing a new farm while providing round-the-clock care took a toll on my mental and physical health. Plans to modernise the on-site cottage for additional revenue had to be postponed, adding to the financial strain.

These experiences have deepened my understanding of the mental health challenges prevalent in the farming community. The latest research by the Farm Safety Foundation paints a worrying picture:
• 91% of farmers now believe that poor mental health is the biggest hidden problem in the industry.
• Farmers work an average of 60 hours per week, far above the UK full-time average of 36.4 hours.
• 1 in 3 farmers who work over nine hours a day have had an accident or near miss in the past 12 months.
• The perception of toughness still dominates farming culture, with 61% saying poor mental health is seen as a weakness—a stigma we must challenge.

It’s easy to feel isolated in farming, especially when working alone in rural areas. But isolation isn’t just about geography—it’s also about mindset. Social media can be a lifeline, but it can also create a false reality, where we only see the best parts of farming. That’s why I try to be open, sharing both the highs and lows. This past weekend was a stark reminder of how tough farming can be—mentally and physically. After battling severe weather and getting stuck on a hillside, I was grateful for the help of a neighbouring farmer. But the reality is, we can’t always rely on others to be available.

This is why conversations about mental health matter. We have to break the silence. We must encourage each other to open up, reach out, and normalise conversations about how we feel. No one should struggle alone. Check in on your friends, check in on your neighbouring farms. A simple conversation could make all the difference.

Posted: February 12, 2025