The NFU is proud to support the ninth year of Yellow Wellies’ Mind Your Head Week.
This year, the focus is on the unique mental health challenges within farming, covering the power of conversations, the importance of intervention when people need help and suicide prevention.
“Farming is undeniably a rewarding way of life but it’s also one of the most demanding, with long hours, financial uncertainty and pressures that build quietly over time,” said NFU Deputy President David Exwood.
Mental health among UK famers over the age of 40 hit a four-year low in 2025, according to the Farm Safety Foundation’s farm safety and wellbeing research.
“Talking is a sign of strength and acknowledging stress is far better than burying it – whether by taking five minutes, seeking support or talking to someone you trust.”
NFU Deputy President David Exwood
It is therefore no surprise that almost a quarter of farmers say their mental health has changed in recent years, according to a 2024 NFU survey.
Public support is with farmers
However, public support for farming is stronger than ever.
The NFU’s 2025 Farmer Favourability survey found that farming is one of the public’s most favoured and valued professions.
“The public agrees no one should have to sacrifice their mental health to produce food and care for the countryside,” David added.
Reach out and talk to each other
For this year’s Mind Your Head week, NFU Deputy President David Exwood emphasised the importance of reaching out: “Talking is a sign of strength and acknowledging stress is far better than burying it – whether by taking five minutes, seeking support or talking to someone you trust.
“Mind Your Head Week reminds us to look after our heads as carefully as everything else on farm, and by supporting one another we can build a culture where no one feels they have to carry the load alone.”
Join the conversation
During the week, please reach out to each other, check-in with people, comment and share on social channels and tag @yellowwelliesUK and use the hashtag #MindYourHead.
As part of Mind Your Head Week, the latest episode of the NFU’s podcast includes a frank conversation with NFU member and co-founder of Herefordshire-based mental health charity We are Farming Minds, Sam Stables.
Our health and safety team has put together a list of available organisations that can support you, both nationally and locally. Visit our wellbeing page to find support in your area.
For anyone who has been affected by the issues outlined in this article, help is available. Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, or visit their website to find the nearest branch.
