The National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) has received funding from the Gardiner Foundation to undertake a feasibility trial aimed at delivering a new peer-led mental health support model to farming communities in Victoria. Titled the Back On Track project, this collaboration between the NCFH and the Gardiner Foundation represents a significant milestone in addressing the mental health challenges faced by farmers and underscores the commitment of both organisations to the wellbeing of the agricultural community.
The Gardiner Foundation, a prominent supporter of agricultural initiatives, has generously provided funding to the NCFH to further develop and evaluate this peer-led evidence-based program that will focus on improving mental health outcomes for farmers in Victoria. Back on Track will explore the effectiveness of a new mental health support model that includes training and mentoring trusted local farming community members to lead delivery of a practical, farmer-focused approach to addressing low mood or depression. The new model will aim to provide accessible and culturally appropriate mental health services to farmers and their families, ensuring they receive the support they need during challenging times.
Back on Track will be supported by an experienced team of researchers and clinicians from Deakin University, Western District Health Service, La Trobe University and the University of South Australia.
To learn more about the community consultation that led to this project read Co-designing a peer-led model of delivering behavioural activation for people living with depression or low mood in Australian farming communities.
To read the report on the co-design informing this project visit MH4Ag – Mental Health for Ag.