Single farmers at risk of depression, helpline finds
Figures from the HSE South’s farm and rural stress helpline for people living in the Cork and Kerry region have revealed that out of 325 calls made over a single 12-month period, 55% were from men, with 62% of all callers single or living alone.
According to the 12-month study, up to February 2007, 41% of calls made to the service during the period concerned individuals suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts, with a similar number (40%) saying they had previously received treatment for depression.
A further 43% of callers — who all came from rural areas — said they were lonely and had no support from their family or community, with one out of every two seeking further help from the HSE support service after the initial call.
The confidential service — the first of its kind in Ireland — was established by the then Southern Health Board, Ballyhoura Development and agriculture group, Teagasc in 2004 to take practical steps to address the long-term difficulties of loneliness and isolation in a rural community.
It is run by three councillors and is available from 6pm to 10pm every day of the year.
“People who live in rural communities are often affected by additional issues such as isolation — not just feeling lonely, but real physical isolation where they are miles from their nearest neighbour or village,” explained Brenda Crowley, mental health resource officer with the HSE South.
“Lack of public transport and little or no access to services can be a real challenge and can compound other problems that people may be experiencing in their lives.”
Acknowledging the stigmaattached to mental health issues in some sections of society, the mental health expert added: “We have been very conscious of promoting the service to people in rural communities, and encouragingly many of the callers are older males.”
The HSE South’s farm and rural stress helpline is available every evening of the year on a confidential basis on 1800 742645.
