Some of us living in more fertile areas of the state, and especially those not living on the land, may be shrugging off the gloom and doom with the thought that, like teachers who apparently lead a cushy life of long holidays and short working hours, they are really doing okay.

Of course this is entirely wrong – teachers work hard and long hours, much longer than a kid’s school day. And farmers really are suffering.

Many farmers they have known no other job. They’ve ridden out hard times before, but to make the life worthwhile there need to be some good years.

Extended drought conditions, poor or no harvests, can only be endured for so long.

It’s not the fault of the farmer, who is doing the best he can. Unfortunately the land is subject to the whims of the weather and climate change, whether we subscribe to the belief or not, appears to be here to stay.

What is really important is those struggling to make ends meet on the land seek help when times are tough.

The government has recognised the need to provide support through Exceptional Circumstances Funding and rural counsellors as well as other initiatives, and local health providers are also seeing the urgency in offering counselling and other help for people going through depression.

This week, Mental Health Week, is an opportune time for anyone affected by seasonal sadness, and finding it hard to go on with life as normal, to ask for some help.

There’s no stigma attached to depression – everyone has lived with it at some time.

The good news is there is more support than ever for those seeking help. Contact your local medical practitioner or health service for further information and take action now.

There are no prizes for trying to manage on your own and every chance of working through problems with guidance and support.