A new campaign is urging farmers to "service their heads like they do the land" and not be shy about seeking mental health support.
The campaign, initiated by specialist mental health support charity TIACS and supported by the philanthropic foundation the Macdoch Foundation, aims to start conversations and remind people that support is available and only a text message away.
TIACS is a not-for-profit organisation which offers free phone and text counselling services for Australia's rural and regional communities.
TIACS co-chief executive Jason Banks said working on the land had its ups and downs and a farmer's mental wellbeing could also experience similar cycles.
"Most farmers get up everyday and put on a hat before beginning their workday, therefore our campaign takes this practical everyday item and uses it to remind people not to ignore or mask what's going on, underneath the hat, inside their head," Mr Banks said.
"Sometimes it's hard to find the words to express what's on our mind, especially for farmers who pride themselves on overcoming tough times, and it can be even harder to ask for support which is why with TIACS support can start with a simple text.
"After initial contact with TIACS, one of our experienced and fully-qualified counsellors will guide conversations either via text or on the phone to offer support and help lighten the load."
He said since launching in June 2020, the service had helped more than 18,000 people.
"But we know there's more we can do so if you or someone you know is facing a challenging time, don't keep it under your hat, reach out to TIACS," he said.
He said the challenges faced by rural and regional Australia would be further exacerbated in the short to media term.
"I strongly believe that the number-one cohort of people reaching out to us during the next 12-18 months will be farmers," he said.
"Our message to farmers, and those who live and work in rural communities, is simple - mental health support is available, you don't need to keep it under your hat.
"TIACS is here, so don't try and tough it out alone, we are only a text message away."
Macdoch Foundation chair Alasdair MacLeod, who has been in the agricultural industry for almost 20 years, said it had been a challenging time for agriculture.
"The reality of farming can be isolating, often requiring people to work in rural and remote areas and some days interacting with animals, crops and equipment more than people," Mr MacLeod said.
"There has also been a reluctance to seek support and we are keen to find ways of removing those barriers.
"TIACS is an organisation that feels approachable and relatable for farmers, so I am pleased that we can boost their capacity to support them in a more targeted way."
For anyone seeking mental health support, call or text TIACS on 0488 846 988.
