More than one in three Australian farmers* are experiencing moderate to high levels of psychological distress, despite most saying they would feel comfortable supporting another farmer facing mental health challenges.
It is why GrainGrowers is encouraging growers to access its free Right Now mental health resources, developed in conjunction with South Australian grain grower and registered psychologist Steph Schmidt.
It comes as new findings from the Farmer Wellbeing Report 2026 reveal farmer psychological distress has increased by 40 percent over the past decade, with more than half of farmers (54 percent) reporting they have felt depressed or down in the past two years.
Yet the research also highlights the strength of farming communities, with 67 percent of farmers saying they would feel comfortable supporting another farmer experiencing mental health challenges*.
GrainGrowers Chief Executive Officer Shona Gawel said the findings reveal an important truth about 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 we need support themselves.
GrainGrowers is hoping to help change that through the Right Now resources, which are available as downloadable videos through the GrainGrowers website and audio through Spotify. Importantly, they can be stored on a smartphone and accessed 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 developed to provide support in moments when people may be feeling 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," Ms Schmidt 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 covers five common challenges experienced by rural Australians, including stress and overwhelm, loneliness, constant worry, reaching out for help and navigating difficult times.
The resources are available free of charge through the GrainGrowers website and Spotify.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Source:
*Farmer Wellbeing Report 2026, Norco Cooperative Limited & The Black Dog Institute
Media Contact: Amy Hayes
Phone: 0400 970 107
Email: Amy.hayes@graingrowers.com.au