The 10th annual series of Green Ribbon walks to raise awareness around mental health difficulties kicks off this month. Everyone is invited to join in and support the campaign, which is organised by the IFA in partnership with See Change, Coillte, and Mental Health Ireland.
Eleven walks have been organised at venues throughout the country during August and September as part of the Green Ribbon campaign. The aim is to spread awareness about all mental health difficulties to help end mental health stigma and discrimination.
IFA President Tim Cullinan said, “It has been a difficult year for many farmers with increasing demands and rising input costs contributing to a lot of additional stress and strain on many farm families. The Green Ribbon walks provide an opportunity for friends, families and communities to connect.”
IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chair Alice Doyle said: “The nature of farming results in many farmers prioritising farm productivity over their own mental health. The Green Ribbon walks provide an opportunity for farmers and rural communities to take time out from their work and socialise with others outdoors.”
Coillte MD Mark Carlin said, “Coillte is delighted to continue their support again this year for the Green Ribbon – Let’s Talk & Walk initiative. The health benefits to both our physical and mental wellness from contact with forests and nature is well established. This initiative aims to encourage everyone to get outdoors and use our forests, trails and recreation parks as a place to focus on improving our mental wellness, a challenge we all face in this increasingly fast-paced and hectic world.”