Rural women bear the burden of mental illness

Rural women bear the burden of mental illness

Rural Women New Zealand is concerned for the mental well-being of farmers as they struggle with the current drought.

“However, the overriding concern for Rural Women™ is women, who are often at the sharp end when mental illness strikes.” Says President Wendy McGowan. “While they are seen as carers and nurturers they are not immune to stress and depression, but are most likely to put their own mental wellbeing on hold and ‘keep calm and carry on’.”

It is well recognised that family violence spikes after an adverse event with increased reports continuing for up to two years following the event. Rural women are especially vulnerable, given their distance from neighbours, health care, child care, family, friends and services. The insidiousness of a drought when there is no end in sight further compounds the problem.

The uniqueness of the farm/home environment and joint nature of agribusiness is a further challenge if a woman wishes to leave an abusive relationship. The economic and emotional ties make it very difficult to walk away from those responsibilities.

“Women play a major role in achieving resilience in rural communities. A quiet word may be all that it takes to initiate help and support, and prevent a tragedy,” says Ms McGowan, “Rural Women™ is well placed and committed to supporting women and families in rural communities.”

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