We Are Here To Help

They say that a problem shared is a problem halved. Callers to Rural Stress Helpline often say that they feel better after talking and will say ‘thank you for listening’. Some say they have no-one to talk to and no-one has the time to listen. We can perhaps all recall a problem that we’ve had where we haven’t been able to talk to our nearest and dearest but we’ve felt better after offloading to someone.

People often see life in the countryside as the ‘rural idyll’. Country living may suggest peace and quiet, beautiful scenery, a healthy and relaxed lifestyle: in short, a stress free life. However, as many will be aware, this idealistic country life is often a myth.

Working or living in the countryside can be difficult for one or many reasons. One problem can lead to another, leaving us feeling withdrawn and depressed. People can feel isolated with their problems and within their community.

Rural communities can be close knit and supportive but can also feel claustrophobic or isolating. Feelings of despair can lead to thoughts of suicide. It takes courage to pick up the telephone, but talking to someone, in confidence, can help.

Rural Stress Helpline offers a confidential, non judgemental listening service to rural people feeling troubled, anxious, worried, stressed or needing information. It’s a national helpline based at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

Where appropriate, and with the caller’s permission, we signpost callers to organisations that provide sustained practical and emotional support. This can be from a local source if it meets the caller’s needs. We’re not able to give advice but have contact with help organisations such as Citizens Advice Bureau, Mind, Relate, rural support groups and local community groups. We also provide ongoing support if necessary, in the form of follow up calls, until the difficulty is resolved or other help is in place. More often than not, people just want to talk and have someone listen.

The issues that affect rural people, for example, isolation, loneliness, depression, bereavement, relationships or problems at work, can affect any of us, urban or rural, but rural people often find it difficult to access services.

Not all callers want to be referred for support. Some talk and feel better for offloading. Others don’t want anyone within their locality to know they have problems. Rural people, and in particular the farming community, are proud and private people. It can take time to build trust and confidence so that the person feels ready to give their permission to be referred.