GrainGrowers releases mental health resources

GRAINGROWERS is encouraging Australian farmers to access free mental health resources as new research shows more than one in three are experiencing moderate to high levels of psychological distress.

The organisation’s Right Now resources, developed with South Australian grain grower and registered psychologist Steph Schmidt, provide practical support for people experiencing common mental health challenges.

The push follows the release of Norco’s Farmer Wellbeing Report 2026, which found farmer psychological distress had increased by 40 per cent over the past decade.

More than half of farmers surveyed (54 per cent) reported feeling depressed or down during the past two years.

However, the research also highlighted the strength of farming communities, with 67 per cent saying they would feel comfortable supporting another farmer experiencing mental health challenges.

GrainGrowers chief executive Shona Gawel said the findings highlighted an important reality in Australian farming communities.

“Growers are often the first people to check in on a neighbour or lend a hand and support to someone who’s having a tough time,” Ms Gawel said.

“But they’re not always as good at recognising when they need support themselves.”

The Right Now resources are available as downloadable videos through
the GrainGrowers website and as audio through
Spotify.

They can be saved to a smartphone for use at any time, including in areas with limited connectivity.

“One of the reasons these resources resonate with growers is because they were created by someone who understands both mental health and farming life,” Ms Gawel said.

“Steph brings professional expertise as a psychologist and lived experience as a grain grower, which means the advice is practical, relevant and grounded in the realities of agriculture.”

Ms Schmidt said the resources were designed to provide support when people felt overwhelmed, isolated or unsure where to turn.

“As both a grower and a psychologist, I know farming can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging,” she said.

“The encouraging thing is that farmers genuinely want to support one another. The willingness to help is already there.

“What we may not be as good at is giving ourselves permission to seek support when we need it.”

The Right Now series addresses five common challenges — stress and overwhelm, loneliness, constant worry, reaching out for help and navigating difficult times.

The resources are available free at rightnow.graingrowers.com.au/now and through Spotify.

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.