Kirsty Schwager says that farmers are a stoic bunch who tend to find it difficult to ask for help, and she should know, she comes from a family of farmers.
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When faced with tough times, it can be helpful chatting with someone who may know where you're coming from. Kirsty Schwager, counsellor at the Farm Gate support service wants people to know she is here to listen, not to judge.
Ms Schwager moved to Griffith from Narrabri, where her family are mixed croppers with a bit of sheep and cattle to boot. She says growing up with farmers, she understands the unique challenges that earning a living from the land can bring.
"We had a bit of hail up north at home this year and quite a lot of rain," Ms Schwager said.
"It thankfully didn't do too much damage but it could've been worse.
"You can essentially lose your crop from bad weather, which brings you no income. And after all these years of drought, to finally have a good crop and lose it at the last minute just as you're starting harvest, can be devastating."
Ms Schwager, a registered nurse who majored in mental health says that despite the historical stoic culture among farming communities, it's important farmers remember they are human too and it's perfectly normal to feel anxious and down sometimes.
"Sometimes you just need a have a good talk to get everything off your chest, that's what I'm here for," Ms Schwager said.
"I can give a non-judgmental, listening ear."
However, sometimes what are normal cycles of emotional ups and downs can become more serious and start to be a real concern.
"When people are not acting like themselves, this is when something more serious could be going on," Ms Schwager said.
"Changes to sleeping routines, appetite or maybe they seem to just not be enjoying anything anymore, these are all signs that someone might have mental health concerns."
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The Farm Gate program aims to provide support specifically to individuals and families involved in the agriculture industry. It's a strictly confidential service that you can access through a number of options.
People can call Accessline 24/7 for a referral on 1800 800 944 or Ms Schwager directly on 0439 403 747 or email kirsty.schwager@health.nsw.gov.au
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Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
