While the effect of the unrelenting drought is apparent around Moree and the region, Boundless Psychology principal psychologist Malinda Guest notes that the dry conditions have taken its toll on less obvious aspects.
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“What we’re seeing with the drought is that the condition is not only impacting farmers on the physical level, but also their mental health,” Ms Guest said.
Ms Guest noted that things like financial hardship, isolation and loss of stock were all triggers to depression.
“Farms have been in families for generations, but now the drought is taking a big toll on future development plans. You start to see an increase in things like depression, anxiety, daily stresses and even strained relationships.”
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On top of in-person sessions, Boundless Psychology has been offering Skype appointments.
“There is a lot more flexibility and freedom with Skype. A farmer can still be on their property, they can be stopped on the side of the road, in the middle of a paddock or resting under a tree.”
Ms Guest observed that more and more locals were jumping on board with the initiative, and that 65 per cent of Boundless Psychology’s sessions with clients around Australia are Skype-based.
“People are now treating mental health just as importantly as their physical health and general well-being. They’re realising that it’s not something to be ashamed about.
“Word is getting out there that help is available. People might be a little hesitant at first, but we’re even seeing people who aren’t tech savvy are starting to join in the conversations on Skype.”
While the government has not yet declared the drought a natural disaster, Ms Guest said there was no denying that it was just as devastating.
“A drought is very different to a fire or a flood. With such events, they’re quick and rapid.
“The drought is much more slow. It creeps on you. Months go by and a farmer might think they’re okay. Then a few more months go on and they start to wonder when the rain will come.
“As soon as a farmer walks out the door, they are having to deal with the drought. There is no distance or separation. It’s physically right there in front of them.”
Ms Guest noted it was difficult for many farmers to pull themselves through, when they were being constantly exposed to this kind of environment.
“Farmers struggling with mental health issues can even find daily activities difficult.
“This can mean getting out of bed, feeding stock, making phone calls to bank managers, chasing invoices, maintaining relationships, looking after the kids or even getting them to school.”
Though, it’s not just the farmers who are directly affected.
“It has a massive economic flow on effect. People in town are seeing a big reduction in sales at stores like retail,” Ms Guest said.
While professional help is always on offer, Ms Guest simple things like momentarily unplugging yourself from the day-to-day stresses can help.
“What I’m also finding is people get caught up in the media and what they see on TV. They compare themselves to the people they see on TV. They think, things aren’t as bad for us as they are for our neighbours. That can stop them from reaching out.
“I recommend that people take a break from talking about the drought. Grab a coffee, grab some groceries.”
She said friends and family could also keep an eye out for tell-tale signs that someone was wrestling with mental health issues.
“We should be looking to see if that person is acting out of character. They might be withdrawn, dropping out of social activities or functions, becoming more irritated, more angry or showing a great deal of sadness.
“That’s when you need to say, hey are you okay?”
Ms Guest said that as of Monday, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced that all 10 Skype sessions are eligible for rebates.
“This removes the restriction of face to face sessions,” Ms Guest said.
