Friday, March 29, 2024

Partnership to boost young farmers’ wellbeing

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Webpage and events build channels for young people to manage their mental health.
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Life can be a challenge at times, making it hard to see the silver lining. This has prompted New Zealand Young Farmers and the Ministry for Primary Industries to partner in an initiative to boost the wellbeing of young people in rural communities.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is supporting NZ Young Farmers (NZYF) to fund a series of events for its members to connect and learn ways to manage mental health and build resilience.

NZYF chief executive Lynda Coppersmith said mental health is a key concern in rural communities, where factors such as isolation and high workloads can affect overall wellbeing and mental health.

“The mental and physical wellbeing of young people is a big focus of our organisation and is essential for the ongoing viability of many rural communities,” Coppersmith said.

“This project will increase awareness of the wellbeing support and resources available and give young people the confidence to access them.”

NZYF clubs can select guest speakers who align with their members’ needs and invite them to speak at their events. 

Speakers will talk about methods of working through challenging times, provide further options on where to seek help, and advocate for the daily practise of healthy habits.

NZYF is also helping to connect young farmers to mental health services through a webpage that facilitates anonymous queries and outlines key mental health services, how to access them and what to expect when these services are contacted.

“People working in our food and fibre sector have busy jobs, often work in isolation and juggle many commitments, so it’s more important than ever to focus on keeping our mental health in check,” MPI director for rural communities and farming support Nick Story said.

“Young people are an important part of our rural communities. This initiative will make it easier for young farmers to keep their wellbeing front of mind and will provide vital options, networks, and support to reach out to when things get tough.”

NZYF has a network of more than 60 clubs that provide an opportunity for young people to make friends, network, upskill, and socialise. Events will take place around the country over the next six months. 

For more information go to: www.youngfarmers.co.nz/get-support

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