About the Community Spotlight:
We know that conversations about mental health in agriculture are most powerful when they come from within the community itself — from the people who live it every day.
Through our Community Spotlight series, we’re sharing the voices of our We Talk. We Grow. Champions and Ambassadors: individuals who are helping break the silence and make space for meaningful conversations around mental wellness on and off the farm.
In this edition, we’re featuring David Newcombe.
Can you tell us about your connection to agriculture — whether you’re farming or supporting farmers — and what inspired you to get involved in the industry?
I’m the 10th generation of my family to farm, and have worked and lived on my farm most of my life. I decided to be involved because I have always enjoyed farming and wanted to see the continuation of the farming tradition.
Why do you think mental health is such an important topic in the farming community?
Farmers face a variety of stressors and currently exist in an industry that still has lots of stigma around mental health. Mental health is as important, if not more important, than physical health and needs to be an ever-present and important topic.
Is there a moment or season that challenged you the most? How did you get through it?
There’s been tough seasons and moments which have challenged me. There’s been different ways I’ve got through it, but that improvement always starts the same. It’s realizing that I’m struggling and not doing well, and accepting that I’ll need support from others and to put a priority on my mental wellness.
How do you think farmers and their support networks can better support each other?
We need to normalize talking about mental health and when we aren’t feeling our best. This can help reduce stigma and make seeking support much easier.
What’s one small thing you do to take care of your mental health on a regular basis?
Playing sports on a regular basis helps me. Both the physical activity and time spent with friends help me.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone — whether they’re a farmer or supporting farmers — who’s struggling?
Often, the best thing you can do is be a compassionate listener. As a supporter of someone struggling, you don’t need to solve all problems, but rather make them feel heard and not alone.
Stay tuned for more stories in our Community Spotlight series, and if their words resonated with you, consider sharing this blog post with someone who might need to hear it.
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