Well-being boards have been set up at Ballyjamesduff Mart, Co. Cavan to raise awareness about key factors that can create stress for farmers.
The well-being boards and accompanying wallet size information cards highlight some of the indicative signs people may show when they are experiencing stress in their lives.
The boards launched at the Ballyjamesduff Mart this month and are part of a broader collaboration between the HSE Connecting for Life resource officers for suicide prevention in Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath, development officers with Mental Health Ireland and Teagasc health and safety specialists.
Information on the boards and information cards highlight things that farmers can do to support well-being, and raise awareness about the practical, confidential and non-judgmental supports available when a farmer or anyone feels they are struggling.
Some of the challenges include: Animal health; Financial difficulties; Regulatory compliance; and Heavy workload. Some of the signs of stress include: Low energy; Lost interest and enjoyment; and negative attitude and thoughts.
The well-being boards will be supplied to all marts and agricultural outlets across the four counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath. They will be put on display in a prominent location.
The boards and the wallet cards also include a QR code which when scanned, leads directly to a copy of the board which is being hosted on the Teagasc Farm Health and Safety webpage.
Teagasc stated: “It is well known that farmers waste no time in calling a vet for a sick animal, get the mechanic in to repair machinery on the understanding that such care and attention to detail is vital to the economic value of the farm.
“Similarly, prioritising personal well-being is essential for the health of the farmer and their family, not to mind their economic value to their family and farm.”
Representatives from Teagasc, Macra, and the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) are involved in promoting the initiative.