In this episode of the MSF Farm Talk Podcast, Nick Paltridge from Mallee Sustainable Farming interviews Steph Schmidt, a farmer and psychologist specialising in agricultural mental health.

They discuss the challenges faced by farmers due to drought and frost conditions in the Southern region, leading to financial strain and stress. Steph shares practical tips on managing mental health, the benefits of farm life, and the importance of staying connected with the community.

Steph also provides valuable advice on coping and sleeping strategies, including action planning, staying present, and the significance of family time. Additionally, resources and help lines for mental health support are highlighted.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:06 Meet Steph Schmidt: Farmer and Psychologist

01:17 Current Challenges in Farming

01:32 Steph's Farming Background

03:28 Mental Health in Farming

06:48 Strategies for Coping with Stress

11:25 Importance of Community and Connection

13:24 Sleep and Mindfulness Tips

16:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

More about Steph Schmidt

Steph Schmidt is a psychologist, farmer, and mum of three boys, running a large sheep and cropping enterprise in South Australia with her husband. Combining her psychological expertise with her lived farming experience, Steph shares practical mental health strategies to improve wellbeing for rural Australians. Known for her authenticity, she engages audiences with her raw and real journey from city girl to farmer,  her personal mental health journey, and the challenges and joys of farming life. In 2023, she led the "Change The Picture" campaign, highlighting farmer mental health through rural women's stories. Join Steph on her new podcast “Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt”.

Connect with Steph on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @stephschmidt.farmlifepsych.

Subscribe to Steph's podcast Farm Life Psych www.stephschmidt.com.au/podcast

Hear about support resources
Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt episode

Resources and links

Regional Access - www.saregionalaccess.org.au - 1300 032 186 
⁠⁠https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/⁠⁠
⁠⁠https://www.lifeline.org.au/⁠⁠ - 13 11 14
⁠⁠https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support⁠⁠
⁠⁠https://kidshelpline.com.au/⁠⁠
www.ifarmwell.com.au