Farmers urged to talk on World Suicide Prevention Day

Research released by Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September reveals a deepening mental health crisis in UK farming.

The national study of 2,000 working adults found that only 25% of agricultural workers would feel able to approach a colleague who they thought might be having suicidal thoughts.

Just one in three would know where to signpost them for help.

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MHFA has partnered with suicide prevention advocate Steve Phillip to highlight the urgent need for more open conversations around suicide in farming and rural communities.

Mr Phillip, who founded the Jordan Legacy CIC after his son Jordan died by suicide in 2019, said:

“Farmers are a proud breed and not wanting to burden others with their problems ranks highly when it comes to talking about mental health or thoughts of suicide.”

He added: “It’s also important not to assume that farmers will seek out help. Issues such as trust and pride can be barriers to help-seeking behaviour.”

Statistics

The British Association for Counselling and Psychology has reported that three people in the UK farming industry die by suicide every week.

Male farmworkers are three times more likely to die by suicide than the male national average, and data from the Office for National Statistics show suicide deaths in the farming community have risen each year between 2021 and 2023.

Mr Phillip suggested: “If we’re to better support farmers and those living in rural communities, we need to meet them on their turf.

“Auction marts, game shoots and other activities where farmers congregate are where support services need to be too.

“We all rely on our farmers for the food we eat and so much more. Let’s ensure that we’re doing the best we can as a society to support them.”

Progress

Despite a host of challenges facing the industry, there are signs of progress.

The MHFA study also found that 74% would ask a colleague if they were worried about suicide, with younger employees significantly more likely to do so.

MHFA says this shows rising awareness and compassion in workplaces, though many still lack the confidence or skills to act.

“This research tells us something vital,” said MHFA England chief executive Sarah McIntosh.

“It’s not a lack of compassion that holds people back, it’s a lack of comfort, confidence, clarity and sometimes permission.”

Strategies

MHFA England is calling on employers to embed suicide prevention into mental health strategies and has launched free resources to help staff recognise warning signs, start conversations and direct people to support.

Mr Phillip added: “Everyone needs to come together to reduce suicide.

“Suicide can be prevented through education and intervention. Becoming a trained Mental Health First Aider will give you the confidence to spot signs and ask the question about suicide.”