RSABI is set to release Thrive, a digital mental health service, for a larger audience in Scottish agriculture following a year-long pilot project with three young farmers clubs, a first in UK agriculture.
It comes following a report and campaigns from Farm Safety Foundation that 94% of agriculture workers under 40 say mental health issues are one of the biggest challenges in the industry.
Working alongside the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) Wellbeing and Development Committee, the RSABI offered members of Biggar, Aberfeldy and Bell Baxter clubs free access to the service, aiming to help their mental health.
RSABI welfare manager, Chris McVey, said: “The Thrive Wellbeing app is packed with a range of resources, and it is up to the user to decide which they want to use. The aim is to help increase resilience and help people deal with stress as well as offering help with other mental health-related issues.”
The app, which is available to almost four million users worldwide, includes live chat with qualified therapists, and a range of resources on mindfulness, relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). For those who need further support, therapy is available with qualified in-house therapists from 8am and 8pm.
Subject to availability, RSABI is offering those in Scottish agriculture free access to the app, which won a top award at the inaugural Scottish Agricultural Awards in Glasgow.
Thrive relationship manager Elizabeth Lerpinière said: “We are absolutely delighted to be continuing our partnership with RSABI to provide support to the Scottish Agricultural community. Our service provides people with access to instant support for their mental health, including ongoing sessions of therapy for those who need it.
“This can be a lifeline for people who are unable to access other mental health support services due to their location, opening hours, or simply having to wait too long to get the help they need.”
RSABI offers emotional, practical and financial support for Scottish agriculture. Its confidential support service is available 24/7, including over Christmas and New Year. It can be reached over Freephone 0808 1234 555, emailing helpline@rsabi.org.uk, or using the webchat service on RSABI’s website.
