We live in stressful times and it can be easy to let life’s challenges affect us. Some people find it easy to pick themselves up after a harsh blow, but what happens if you’re finding it hard to bounce back?

Linda Thorpe, who works as a development officer for Mental Health Ireland in the south-east, will speak about how to cope with life’s challenges at this year’s Women and Agriculture conference, which takes place in the Europe Hotel, Killarney, on October 24.

She tells Irish Country Living that there are many reasons a person may feel under pressure.

“Isolation is a big problem,” she says. “Finances are also playing havoc with people. Many are afraid to spend money because of uncertainty with cutbacks.

“As farmers, the variables are hard to manage. Farmers can’t control the weather and cutbacks to payments.

“No wonder they are worried about the future. Also, those who marry into farms can have difficulties assimilating into the new lifestyle and area,” she adds.

Accessing Services

Linda has worked in the mental health sector for 37 years.

“A lot of my work is with rural organisations and rural people,” she says. “Sometimes it can be difficult to access services. However, there is great community spirit in rural areas. It’s all about making connections and pushing yourself to talk to others. Joining groups such as the IFA and getting involved in local initiatives really helps.”

She advises that people should seek professional help if they are suffering from serious problems.

“With regards to money issues, talk to a professional who can help you manage,” says Linda.

“If you think you could have an underlying issue such as depression, go to your GP. They should be your first point of contact.”

At the Conference

At the conference this month, Linda will explain a bit more about how to handle stress.

“I’ll be explaining how to build resilience,” she continues. “Self-awareness and finding out what works for you are very important.

There are many things you can try – sometimes little things like getting enough sleep, exercising or improving your diet may sound simple but they can make the world of difference.”