This is a community voice column published in the Hereford Times on September 12.

Pat Churchward, High Sheriff of Herefordshire

BEING a farmer’s daughter, and closely involved in farming I was interested to speak to founders Emily and Sam Stables and the team at We are Farming Minds a couple of weeks ago.

Herefordshire may be an idyllic county but it still hides some sad and worrying tales for many people, as I am finding out.

Whether you need help for mental health issues, family problems, abuse or exploitation there is a group somewhere that can help.

This week, instead of my diary, I have asked Emily Stables to write for you... and she knows what she is talking about when it comes to living with mental health crisis in the countryside.

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“There is a huge stigma surrounding mental health. We still have a long way to go in encouraging the farming community to come forward and admit they are struggling and would like some support.

“This year, We are Farming Minds Charity has seen an unprecedented increase in numbers for all of their services. Particularly their counselling service and support line. The support line has seen a 485 per cent increase in calls and texts this year. People are finally starting to talk!

“Farming is a tough industry to be in and it’s ok to ask for help! Talking therapies alone can be so beneficial, but sometimes a combination of both talking and medication can help even more.

“If you had an infection and required antibiotics to heal, most of us wouldn’t be ashamed of taking them. However, the same cannot be said for medications to help with mental health, yet they are doing the exact same thing, healing something that cannot be seen but can be felt. There is no need to be ashamed!

“We are Farming Minds encourages anyone in the farming community who is struggling to just make that first step and tell someone. Whether that be a friend, relative, a GP or by calling their 24h support line on 0808 802 0070 or text 07786203130. They can provide fully-funded counselling within a week to anyone within the farming community.

“Let’s break the stigma and start talking more!”