Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, is urging the government to improve access to mental health services in rural communities, highlighting the growing mental health crisis faced by farmers and rural residents.

The call comes on World Mental Health Day, following a survey revealing that 95% of farmers under 40 consider poor mental health to be the biggest hidden problem in the agricultural industry. Ms Dyke stressed the urgent need for greater mental health support, as many people living in rural areas feel isolated and lack access to vital services.

"People living in rural communities can often be isolated, struggle to access local services which have been cut to the bone, or suffer from heating or fuel poverty," Ms Dyke said. "With winter fast approaching this year and the cost of living crisis in full effect, now more than ever, we need to make sure people in rural communities have proper access to mental health support."

The situation is particularly acute for farmers, who have faced a series of difficult years. Poor crop yields, disease, livestock challenges, and severe flooding have taken their toll, leaving many farmers feeling like they are at breaking point. According to recent statistics, 61% of farmers believe they may have to give up their farms in the next 18 months, while 36% report being in poor mental health.

Ms Dyke also highlighted that the rural premium—where the cost of basic daily necessities is often 10 to 20% higher—exacerbates the situation for rural families. With the government's recent cuts to the Winter Fuel Allowance, she warned that many people in Somerset's rural communities could find themselves in an even more vulnerable position this winter.

"The invisible areas of deprivation that exist throughout Somerset will worsen this winter due to the government's cuts," she said.

Ms Dyke has called on the government to ensure farmers get quick access to the funding they're entitled to and to improve access to NHS mental health services in rural areas. She also emphasised the importance of continued support for rural health hubs, which can provide crucial lifelines in areas with few other healthcare options.

"We must make sure that proper attention is given to resourcing mental health services, charities, and helplines, as often these are the last, life-saving hope for people really struggling," she said.

The need to focus on mental health in rural Somerset is clear. Statistics show that mental health problems represent the largest cause of disability in the UK, with costs to health and social care services estimated at £22.5 billion and rising. In Somerset alone, it's estimated that up to 70,000 people are living with a mental health condition at any one time.

Nationally, one in six adults and one in ten children are affected by mental health issues, and early intervention is crucial. Half of all mental health problems start by the age of 14, making access to timely support a priority.

The impact on the farming community is even more worrying. With many farmers struggling with the stress of financial pressures, disease outbreaks, and unpredictable weather, the lack of support could drive even more out of the industry.

Ms Dyke is urging local residents to back calls for improved mental health resources in Glastonbury and the wider rural community. "We need to come together as a community to support our farmers and rural residents," she said.

For those in need of support, organisations such as Mind Somerset and the Farming Community Network offer confidential help and resources for those experiencing mental health issues in rural areas.

If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or Mindline Somerset on 01823 276 892.