A new helpline aimed at farmers and others living in rural Ireland who may be suffering from stress or depression will be launched tonight by the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture and Food, Mr John Browne.
The Farm and Rural Stress Helpline is being established by the Southern Health Board and will cater for people living in Counties Cork and Kerry who may be feeling down, suffering from stress or depression or may be concerned about someone.
Mr Browne - speaking in advance of tonight's launch of the service in Mitchelstown, Co Cork - said that targeting those living in rural areas with information and making services as accessible as possible is vital.
"Very often, a lack of awareness of what services are available can be a real barrier to someone seeking help. Raising the awareness of the helpline in the rural community is vital if it is to reach those who need a listening ear," he said.
"Tonight's event is important as it draws attention to the service and informs people about the kind of confidential help, advice and support that is available to them," he added.
The helpline has come about through a partnership between the SHB, farm advisory group, Teagasc and Ballyhoura Development Limited based in North Cork and Limerick, all of whom have been looking at the problem of stress and depression in rural areas.
SHB Mental Health Resource Officer, Ms Brenda Crowley said that farm and rural stress can be caused by any number of issues ranging from financial difficulties, addiction or abuse to loneliness or relationship problems.
"It's not just feeling lonely, but real physical isolation where they are miles from their nearest neighbour or village. The lack of public transport and little or no access to services can also be a real challenge and can compound other problems that people may be experiencing in their lives," she added.
The Farm and Rural Stress helpline (Telephone 1800 742 645) will be in operation from tomorrow, will be open daily from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and will be staffed by professionals who can offer callers support and advice in complete confidence.
