Connect for Mental Health: Rural Aid encourages Queensland farmers to reach out this Mental Health Week
Rural Aid is encouraging Queensland farmers and rural families to start a conversation that matters, with Mental Health Week beginning this Saturday, 4 October. This year’s Queensland theme, Connect for Mental Health, is a reminder that connection is a powerful tool in preventing and managing mental health challenges.
“Connection is absolutely essential in rural life,” said Nicole Galvin, Rural Aid’s Queensland-based counsellor. “It can be the difference between someone struggling in silence or reaching out for support. When we feel connected, we feel seen — and we’re more likely to talk about what’s really going on.”
Ms Galvin supports farmers across Queensland with free, confidential counselling, designed to be flexible and practical for those working on the land.
“Connection doesn’t have to be formal or time-consuming,” she said. “It might be a chat at the local store, a check-in at the cattle yards or a phone call after dinner. These moments help build trust and let people know they’re not alone.”
Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing program delivers one-on-one counselling, wellbeing resources, community workshops and proactive outreach to help farmers stay connected and mentally healthy.
In addition to the weeklong focus, World Mental Health Day on Friday 10 October is a chance to reflect on how we can all be part of a more supportive and connected community.
“Farmers often put their own wellbeing last,” Ms Galvin said. “But your mental health matters. Connection is a protective factor. It’s a reminder that someone’s in your corner.”
Rural Aid encourages any Queensland farmer or rural worker who is struggling to reach out for support:
“Whether it’s a conversation with a mate or a call to a counsellor, every connection counts,” Ms Galvin said. “You don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help.”
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au