Factors such as inflation, cost-of-living pressures, climate change and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and rural communities.
Recognising the critical need for support, Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to once again champion mental health initiatives in rural Australia.
With a commitment of $800,000 over the past eight years, Zoetis has been a steadfast supporter of Beyond Blue's vital services.
Zoetis has set a goal to raise an extra $100,000 by the end of the year by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig and poultry vaccines and drenches to Beyond Blue. The campaign runs until October 31.
More than 3.4 million people in Australia are dealing with anxiety or depression, and nearly half of the population will face mental health issues in their lifetime.
People living in rural and remote areas are disproportionately affected by stress and anxiety, and accessing help is harder due to attitudinal, financial and digital barriers.
Derek Schoen, a Corowa farmer and Beyond Blue board member, emphasises the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity.
“Country people are resilient and tough, but the many challenges we face can take a toll on our mental health,” he said.
“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses. I encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early.”
Lance Williams from Zoetis said the money raised in the campaign will go directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service to help people living in rural and remote areas.
“To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service,” he said.
For more information about the Zoetis campaign, go to: www.zoetis.com.au
For more information about depression and anxiety, or for mental health support, visit: www.beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 22 46 36.
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