A MAJOR research project focused on suicide prevention in agriculture is being announced this week by the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI).
The PhD research project, aimed at understanding and preventing suicide within Scotland’s farming and crofting communities, will be run for three years with the University of Glasgow.
Professor Rory O’Connor, director of the university's suicidal behaviour research lab who is to supervise the project, is inviting interest from prospective PhD researchers to apply and be part of the team.
The study will look to address the distinct challenges faced by people working in agriculture, a sector where stress, isolation, and poor access to healthcare contribute to significantly higher risks of mental ill-health and suicide.
The findings of the study will directly inform RSABI’s suicide prevention activities and wider mental health support work, helping to deliver more tailored services, targeted campaigns, and innovative tools to support those at risk and those affected.
The final phase of the study will involve in-depth interviews with individuals from agricultural backgrounds who have experienced suicidal thoughts or who have been bereaved by suicide.
Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: “Tragically, suicide continues to be responsible for the loss of too many lives in the agricultural community. This research will play a vital role in deepening our understanding of the factors behind suicide in farming and help shape the most effective prevention strategies.”
Professor O’Connor said: “We are delighted to be partnering with RSABI on this important project. For far too long, suicide risk in agricultural communities has not received the attention that it so badly needs.
"Over the next three years, we hope to gain a better understanding of the specific factors associated with suicide risk, which will, in turn, inform suicide prevention efforts nationally and internationally.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (Available 24/7)
- Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (Available Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am. At weekends, open between Friday 6pm and Monday 6am)
- NHS 24 mental health hub on: 111 (Available 24/7)
- If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.
