Mental health support for drought-stricken farmers

Farmers affected by this year's devastating drought will be given support to recognise mental health problems.

The Ministry of Health will work with rural organisations in areas that were declared in drought earlier this year.

The ministry will hold a series of workshops teaching people to recognise the signs of mental health problems, and to know how to respond.

Associate Health Minister Jo Goodhew said working in very stressful and difficult circumstances can have a significant effect on a person's mental health, and those in the rural community can be vulnerable after such a large-scale event.

"We know this has been an extremely trying time for many farmers and the impacts are likely to continue for some time, possibly even years.

"For some farmers, getting through winter and early spring is going to be challenging for a range of reasons, including having to manage on-farm issues caused by drought, financial constraints, and ongoing uncertainty and stress."

 

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