Take the next step: Rural Aid supports NSW farmers this Mental Health Week
With Mental Health Week starting this Saturday, 4 October, Rural Aid is encouraging New South Wales farmers to take meaningful steps toward better mental wellbeing. This year’s theme, Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey, is a reminder that mental health is a process, not a destination.
“Everyone’s journey is different,” said Ian Larnach, Rural Aid’s NSW-based counsellor. “The important thing is to start. That might mean checking in with yourself, having a conversation with someone you trust, or talking to a counsellor.”
Mr Larnach supports farmers across NSW with free, confidential counselling, helping them work through challenges such as stress, family pressures, isolation and grief.
“You don’t have to take big leaps,” he said. “Even the smallest step forward can shift your perspective. And over time, those small steps add up to real progress.”
Rural Aid’s mental health program includes personalised counselling, wellbeing sessions, community workshops and proactive check-ins designed to support farmers in their everyday lives.
World Mental Health Day, on Friday 10 October, also provides a moment to pause, reflect and encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing.
“Farmers are often so focused on looking after their land, stock and families that they forget to look after themselves,” Mr Larnach said. “But your wellbeing matters too. And there’s always support available.”
NSW primary producers can access Rural Aid’s counselling and mental health support services here:
“You don’t have to have it all figured out,” Mr Larnach said. “Just start where you are. And know that you’re not alone — Rural Aid is here to walk alongside you.”
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