At Newlands Training, we’re passionate about practical skills, safety and qualifications – but there’s another side of life in land-based industries that doesn’t get enough attention: mental health.
I’m Anna, the Training Co-ordinator here at Newlands, and I wanted to share a story that’s close to home – both professionally and personally.
A few years ago, after an especially long and challenging harvest, my husband Sam came home and said something I’ll never forget:
“I’m sad – and I think it’s because I’m constantly thinking about farming.”
It wasn’t that he didn’t love the job – farming has always been his passion – but it had taken over. There was no off-switch, no escape, and no time to just be Sam.
We talked about what could help. Something away from the farm. Somewhere he could be himself. He’d been going to the gym occasionally, but soon he made the leap and joined our local CrossFit box. For the first year, he didn’t even tell anyone he was a farmer – and that was a big step. It was his way of putting the weight down for a while, both literally and mentally.
Now, two years later, the transformation is real. His sleep, mood, and energy levels have improved. He eats better, feels better, and – crucially – copes far better with the demands of the job.
And it turns out, Sam’s not alone.
According to the Farm Safety Foundation, 94% of farmers under 40 say poor mental health is the biggest hidden problem in agriculture. Long hours, isolation, financial pressures, and unpredictable conditions all take their toll. In fact, suicide rates among male agricultural workers are among the highest of any occupation in the UK.
That’s why we need to talk about this more.
So often in our industry, resilience is praised – but asking for help, or even carving out time for yourself, is seen as a luxury or even a weakness. But it’s not. It’s a necessity.
Whether it’s exercise, sport, creative hobbies or just time away from the field, making space for yourself is one of the healthiest decisions you can make. And it might just help you become stronger, happier and more resilient – not just for the job, but for life beyond it too.
As Sam would tell you now: it’s not about walking away from the farm. It’s about giving yourself the tools to handle it better – physically and mentally.
So, if you’re reading this and nodding along, take this as your reminder: you matter too.
Even in the busiest seasons, it’s okay – and important – to prioritise your wellbeing. You’re more than your role. And taking care of yourself might just be the strongest thing you ever do.
