Farmstrong launches tales and tools for getting through tough times
Module Overview
The stories of farmers impacted by severe weather events in 2023 have been captured by Farmstrong in a bid to give others in the primary sector more tools to get through tough times.
More than 30 farmers, growers and industry leaders were interviewed as part of the series that has been pulled into a book, website and resources to support those going through the recovery process from the weather events. The book and accompanying website titled ‘Getting Through’ were officially launched in Wellington today.
The launch was attended by Minister for Mental Health and ACC Hon Matt Doocey and Getting Through contributor Hawke’s Bay deer farmer Harry Gaddum.
Farmstrong Programme Director Gerard Vaughan said there is a wealth of knowledge that farmers and growers can tap into and use as a roadmap to move forward following tough times.
“The main take out from these resources is a hopeful one. As awful as these events are, farmers and growers do find a way through. A long-haul recovery, however, is a marathon not a sprint. That’s why people’s mental and physical wellbeing has to be a priority, despite the upheaval.”
Vaughan said the tools and insights from Getting Through are relevant for anyone facing tough times.
“There are practical mental skills that people can draw on to help them manage the ‘emotional rollercoaster’ of a recovery. We know that different things work for different people. That’s why Farmstrong’s call to action is always ‘Find out what works for you and ‘lock it in’” added Gerard.
Getting Through was made possible with the support of Ministry for Primary Industries, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora and Rural Support Trust.
“The Getting Through project demonstrates the ability of the organisations in the rural wellbeing space to work together effectively. I look forward to hearing more feedback about these resources and hope that our rural and even not so rural communities find them really useful”.
Copies of the book can be requested via emailing info@farmstrong.co.nz and the website can be accessed via https://gettingthrough.farmstrong.co.nz/.
Farmstrong is a nationwide, rural wellbeing programme that helps farmers and growers manage the ups and downs of farming. Last year, 15,500 farmers and growers attributed an increase in their wellbeing to the programme.
