In the quiet corners of Shropshire’s countryside, where fields stretch endlessly and the rhythm of rural life often masks deeper struggles, a young farmer is breaking the silence. Known online as “Tom the Young Farmer,” he has become a familiar voice in the agricultural community, using his platform to talk about something that is often left unsaid: mental health.
For years, farming has carried an unspoken weight. The isolation, the long hours, the unpredictable weather, and the mounting financial pressures have created a perfect storm for mental health challenges. Yet, many farmers still feel they must shoulder these burdens alone. Tom, however, is determined to change that narrative. As part of BBC Farmwatch, he recently spoke with BBC Shropshire about how the simple act of checking in with his mates has taken on a new and profound meaning over the past year.
The Hidden Struggle in the Fields
Farming is often romanticized as a peaceful, wholesome way of life. But the reality is far more complex. Behind the idyllic images of rolling hills and livestock at dawn lies a profession that consistently ranks among the most stressful in the UK. The Office for National Statistics has repeatedly highlighted that agricultural workers face a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the national average. It is a sobering statistic that underscores an urgent need for change.
Tom knows this struggle all too well. He has seen colleagues, friends, and neighbours quietly battle anxiety, depression, and burnout. The pressure to keep the farm running, to maintain a legacy passed down through generations, and to appear strong in front of the community can be overwhelming. “You’re expected to just get on with it,” he says. “There’s this unspoken rule that farmers are tough, that we don’t talk about feelings. But that’s not true. We all have feelings, and ignoring them doesn’t make them go away.”
The Weight of Isolation
Isolation is one of the most insidious aspects of farming life. Unlike an office job where colleagues are just a desk away, farmers often work alone for hours on end. The COVID-19 pandemic only intensified this isolation, as social gatherings were put on hold and community events were cancelled. For many, the loneliness became unbearable.
Tom recalls a particularly difficult period during lockdown when he found himself struggling more than usual. “I was spending all day in the tractor, just me and my thoughts,” he remembers. “It was easy to spiral. You start thinking about everything that’s going wrong, and before you know it, you’re in a dark place.” It was during this time that he realized the importance of reaching out, not just for himself but for others who might be feeling the same way.
A New Meaning of ‘Checking In’
For Tom, the phrase “checking in” used to be a casual greeting—a quick text or a wave from across the yard. But over the past year, it has evolved into something much deeper. He now makes a conscious effort to call his friends, not just to talk about the weather or the latest tractor price, but to genuinely ask how they are doing. And he listens.
“It’s not about fixing anything,” he explains. “It’s about letting them know that someone cares. Just saying ‘I’ve been thinking about you, are you okay?’ can make a huge difference. It opens the door for them to be honest.”
This shift in approach has had a ripple effect. Tom has noticed that when he is open about his own struggles, others feel more comfortable sharing theirs. “There’s a real sense of relief when you realise you’re not alone,” he says. “Once you start talking, you realise that everyone is dealing with something. We just never talk about it.”
Breaking the Stigma
Despite increased awareness in recent years, mental health stigma remains a significant barrier in rural communities. Many farmers worry that admitting to struggling will be seen as a sign of weakness or that it might affect their reputation. There is also a practical concern: if a farmer steps back to focus on their mental health, who will look after the animals? Who will bring in the harvest?
Tom acknowledges these fears but believes that the cost of silence is far greater. “We need to normalise these conversations,” he insists. “It’s okay to not be okay. It doesn’t make you a bad farmer. It makes you human.”
He points to the growing number of initiatives aimed at supporting farmer wellbeing, from helplines like the Farming Community Network to local support groups and online forums. These resources are vital, but Tom argues that the most effective support often comes from within the community itself.
Practical Steps for Farmers and Their Families
So, what can be done to support mental health in the farming community? Tom offers several practical suggestions, drawing from his own experience and the advice of professionals.
Make Time for Connection
Schedule regular check-ins with friends, family, or neighbours. It doesn’t have to be a long conversation—a five-minute phone call can be enough to make someone feel seen. Tom suggests setting a reminder if needed, as it can be easy to forget when you’re busy.
Know the Warning Signs
Be aware of changes in behaviour that might indicate someone is struggling. This could include withdrawal from social events, neglecting farm tasks, or expressing feelings of hopelessness. If you notice these signs in someone you know, reach out gently and without judgement.
Seek Professional Help Early
There is no shame in talking to a GP or a counsellor. Tom encourages farmers to treat their mental health with the same seriousness as their physical health. “If you broke your leg, you’d see a doctor,” he says. “It should be the same for your mind.”
Create a Supportive Environment
On the farm, small changes can make a big difference. This might mean involving family members in decisions, sharing the workload more evenly, or simply making time for breaks during the day. A rested mind is better equipped to handle stress.
The Power of Community
Tom’s story is a reminder that no one has to face their struggles alone. The farming community is, at its core, a network of people who look out for one another. By breaking the silence and reaching out, we can build a culture where asking for help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.
He hopes that by sharing his own journey, he can encourage others to do the same. “If my story helps just one person pick up the phone and call a friend, then it’s worth it,” he says. “We’re all in this together, even when it feels like we’re not.”
As the sun sets over the Shropshire hills, Tom’s message is clear: check in on your mates, listen without judgement, and remember that you are never as alone as you feel. The fields may be vast, but the connections we build can bridge any distance.
For anyone struggling, help is available. The Farming Community Network (FCN) offers a confidential helpline, and the Samaritans are available 24/7. You are not alone.
