Boost for rural mental health

The second phase of a one-off $500,000 government funding boost for rural mental health schemes was announced at Fieldays this year. FILE PHOTO

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman and Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy have announced increased training for rural health professionals and community leaders to tackle depression in rural communities.

Dr Coleman said the commitment is the second part of the one-off $500,000 funding boost for mental health initiatives targeted at rural communities announced at Fieldays.

"Raising awareness of mental health issues in rural communities is important, but you also need the professional support with the right skills to help those who are at risk.

"The Ministry of Health will work closely with Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand and DHBs to provide around 40 training workshops in 20 different locations on mental health issues.

"This funding will boost the skills of health professionals such as GPs, nurse practitioners and pharmacists working in rural areas.

"It will also allow greater coverage of training for people with specific farming-related jobs, such as farm consultants and stock agents.

"In addition to the workshop sessions, clinical champions will be identified and appointed. These champions will work to promote best practice and encourage discussions around rural depression to continue."

The ministers previously announced that, in collaboration with Dairy NZ and Beef + Lamb NZ, up to 100 support people will be trained to work for Rural Support Trusts. Mr Guy said they will be able to recognise and refer those who need support.

"This expanded workforce support network has just started operating in Waikato and more trained rural supporters will be working in communities by the end of September.

"Farmers are resourceful and are used to coping with all kinds of challenges. While this season may be tough for some, we know that many parts of the primary sector are seeing increased export returns."