Survey looks at women's mental health in farming
Trudy Herniman was 23 years old when her mother, a farmer's wife, took her own life."She wasn't someone who cried. She was very matter-of-fact and just got on with things," she saidA survey by the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) in 2021 found that 43% of women in rural areas were classified as either possibly or probably depressed.As part of a three-year study, researchers at the University of Exeter are seeking the views of women in farming to help improve the support provided for their health and wellbeing.
Ms Herniman, 52, of South Molton, works as a field insurance advisor and makes it her job to offer support when needed.She said: "You're invited into the farmhouse kitchen – people tell you about their worries, their fears, the challenges they are suffering."If I can prevent what happened to my mum from happening to someone else, I will. "If I can get them to open up, then I will. That's her legacy."She added that women were the backbone in farming, and she saw a huge amount of stress and burden put upon them.
In 2021, The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) surveyed 15,296 people from across England and Wales (76% male, 23% female)It found:36% of all respondents were classified as either possibly or probably depressed. For women, this figure was 43%.47% were experiencing anxiety to some degree (women 58%). 18% moderate or severe anxiety (women 23%).
Carly Titmus, 44 works for the young suicide prevention charity, Papyrus.She visits livestock markets in the South West of England to promote awareness.She said: "I have worked alongside women in our farming communities. "There is a lot of discussion around isolation and feeling like they are not fitting in and getting time off the farm to have that break away."
Three-year study
Researchers are seeking the views of women in farming to help improve the support provided for their health and wellbeing.The research is led by the University of Exeter and the Farming Community Network (FCN) charity.Leaders said it aimed to better understand the physical and mental health of women working in agriculture - including potential stressors in farming and barriers to seeking support.The survey is part of the three-year research project and team members said they were keen to hear from all women over the age of 18 who were either living and/or working on farms.Researchers said the results would be shared with relevant public health bodies and policy makers.Dr Rebecca Wheeler, from the University of Exeter, who is leading the project, said: "We want to hear about the experiences of women from across the UK – of all ages and backgrounds – and from different roles in agriculture."Linda Jones, national manager (FCN Cymru), said: "This is an important opportunity for women in farming to share their views and contribute to this new research. "There has historically been limited research conducted into the health and wellbeing of women in farming – including both the positive aspects, as well as any unique stressors or barriers that may be faced and potential implications for their life choices."
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