Farmers silent on personal problems

Members of the farming community need to talk about their personal problems and difficulties, the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) has advised.

The IACP, which is participating at this week’s National Ploughing in County Laois has pointed to research that it had commissioned in 2012, which found that almost one in three members (28%) of the farming community don’t tell anyone about their personal problems and difficulties.

The same IACP survey also 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. 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.”

The IACP stand will provide those attending the ploughing championship with information about services and supports from qualified and accredited counsellors and psychotherapists across Ire