Farmers being encouraged to talk about the challenges of rural life
Research conducted by the IACP has found that 28% of people in the farming community don’t tell anyone about the personal challenges they face.
The same IACP survey showed that 86% of farmers have never attended a counsellor or a psychotherapist and that one in five members of the farming community would feel embarrassed if people knew they were attending a counsellor or psychotherapist.
Shane Kelly, professional services manager, the IACP said: “Life in rural areas can be lonely, but if you’re feeling low or experiencing difficulties, it’s important to know that there is help out there.”
The IACP has more than 3,500 fully accredited counsellors and psychotherapists working across every county of Ireland. The group is to engage with farmers during the three days of this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, near Stradbally, Co Laois.
“Our theme at this year’s ploughing championships is ‘it’s good to talk’.
“We feel that it’s vital for to talk to someone — either a GP, a friend or family member or a professional counsellor / psychotherapist. Counselling or psychotherapy can be very beneficial to help people to deal with issues like stress or anxiety,” said Shane Kelly.
“No matter how isolated you feel, there is help available in your area. It is also important for members of the farming community to be aware that they can access these services on a strictly confidential basis,” he said.
