FRIENDS OF BRECON AND DISTRICT MIND
MENTAL HEALTH IN THE FARMING COMMUNITY:
EMMA PICTON-JONES from the DPJ Foundation
Wednesday 10 July 2019, The Muse, Glamorgan Street, Brecon, 7pm, £5 (Friends / Members £2)
The Friends of Brecon and District Mind have invited Emma Picton-Jones of the DPJ Foundation to talk about mental health issues in the farming community and the work of her organisation to address this, often hidden, problem on Wednesday 10 July at the Muse, Brecon, at 7pm. All are welcome.
The DPJ Foundation (www.thedpjfoundation.com) was established in July 2016 following the death of Daniel Picton-Jones. It aims to support people in rural communities with poor mental health, especially men in farming. Agriculture carries one of the highest rates of suicide and, with mental health being such a big problem, the foundation aims to break down the stigma that surrounds it.
Although farming can provide huge benefits to those who work in the sector, it is an occupation that comes with pressure, isolation and demand on a daily basis. Some of the other reasons that agriculture has such a high rate of suicide include resistance to seeking help, discrimination, constant change, uncertainty and self-reliance.
Talking therapies are often effective at dealing with poor mental health and the DPJ Foundation is able to offer counselling. If anyone is concerned about someone, though, they should ask how they are feeling, be patient and wait for them to talk, listen without judgement, give reassurance and encourage them to get professional help. Self-help, such as eating well, music, relaxation, mindfulness, having fun, socialising and positive thinking, is also important.
The Friends support the work of Brecon and District Mind and raise awareness of mental health issues in and around Brecon, Crickhowell, Talgarth and Hay-on-Wye. They holds talks, walks, social activities and fund-raising events.
Brecon and District Mind, Ty Croeso, St David’s House, 48 Free Street, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7BP / 01874 611529 / info@breconmind.org.uk / www.breconmind.org.uk / Friends of Brecon and District Mind: friends@breconmind.org.uk
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