Virtual reality headsets are helping doctors understand the mental health challenges facing farmers and farm workers. The innovative VR educational experience has been developed by three Suffolk doctors to address what has become an increasing mental health crisis among the UK’s farming communities.
The Rural Minds Project uses immersive storytelling to highlight the experiences of farmers and rural workers. Funded by the Felix Thornley Cobbold Agricultural Trust, it will be showcased at the House of Lords this month.
It has been created by Dr Jordan Tsigarides from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and GPs Dr Daniel James and Dr Richard West, in collaboration with Cambridge-based creative technology company Revolve Labs.
Wellbeing
A Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution survey found that 36% of farmers are probably or possibly depressed, with 47% of respondents reporting constant anxiety and only about 10% describing their mental wellbeing as good.
The three doctors behind the project are working with the Royal College of General Practitioners to disseminate it as a training tool. A farmer-facing version is being shared through the rural mental health charity You Are Not Alone.
Virtual reality headset wearers experience the everyday realities of farming life – exploring the challenges of financial strain, weather dependency, isolation, and generational pressure.
Open dialogue
The project aims to build understanding and empathy among healthcare professionals, policymakers and rural organisations, while encouraging open dialogue about mental wellbeing with farmers themselves.
Dr Tsigarides, who is a senior researcher at Norwich Medical School, said: “The Rural Minds VR experience allows you to step into the boots of a farmer struggling with his mental health and truly shines a light on this difficult topic.
“As doctors, our training doesn’t emphasise the unique challenges that the agricultural community face, leaving us ill-prepared to identify and support those in need. This project hopes to change that.”
Felix Thornley Cobbold Agricultural Trust chairman and Suffolk farmer James Forrest said: “Often the most difficult step for anyone suffering is to ask for help in the first place, which can take great courage.”
‘We want to make it easier to help’
The immersive virtual reality video is free to access and is being promoted to doctors and other health professionals.
For healthcare professionals with headsets – including local Integrated Care Boards – the content can be loaded onto them for use with GPs. There is also an online version that can be used on a browser for those without headsets.
The goal is to raise awareness and creating practical ways for doctors to understand and respond to mental health challenges. Outreach with VR headsets will include a special event at the House of Lords during November.
Listening to farmers
Dr James said: “The Rural Minds project is about listening to and standing alongside our farming communities. Behind the hard work and resilience of rural life, there can be real struggles with isolation, stress, and mental health.
He added: “We hope to make it easier for people to reach out seeking help. This project is about connection, community – and changing the conversation around suicide risk in agriculture.”
Revolve Labs founder Hamish Mackenzie said: “We believe virtual reality has a unique ability to create moments of genuine understanding and reflection, helping people see the world through someone else’s eyes.
“The Rural Minds Project exemplifies how immersive storytelling can drive real social change, and we’re proud to showcase this work both locally at this event, and at the House of Lords this November as part of our ongoing mission to use VR for good.”