Isolation in Rural Ireland
by Michael McTigue
Ireland may be rejoicing in the triumph of the award winning “Banshees Of Inisherin “but beyond the Hollywood hype does this dark Martin Mc Donagh tale not but re-echo a truth of Irish society that has changed very little in a century or more?
In essence all Padraig wanted was a friendly ear to listen to him as he regaled his daily farming tales, to chat with over a pint in the local , to call into to hear the local news, to check in on him every now and then to make sure he was are Ok . …. Not much to ask one might hasten to add ….and many do enjoy the company and contentment of a supportive circle of family and friends … But for others living in rural Ireland isolation and loneliness are a very real and stark part of everyday life and nothing with regard to connectivity and communication can be taken for granted.
Living in the countryside can appear idyllic and of course there are many advantages and benefits to same … more space, less pollution, less noise .. a slower pace of life …
The Pandemic has seen people re-locate and leave the hustle and bustle of urban life behind … and for many … working from home in rural Ireland can prove to be a very positive life choice.
However, living in rural Ireland is not such an idyllic or indeed positive experience for all. One might argue that rural isolation has always been part of rural life so why is it so prevalent and increasingly concerning now?
Firstly the farming community is an ever ageing population with many young people following a different life-path , some through choice , more through necessity. This leaves many farmers with no choice but to continue to work the farm into old age. While in years gone by many would be enjoying the company and help of the next generation as they grow older today’s reality paints a different scene …. The youth often through no choice of their own are gone building lives elsewhere and the older generations remain.
Farming is both physically and mentally demanding. Working long hours, often alone, 24/7 in extreme weather is challenging enough. Couple that with the closing down of local pubs, post offices, shops and banks and one becomes more and more isolated. Add to that financial issues and concerns, a Pandemic of seismic proportions and Brexit to boot... the scene grows grimmer, the challenge to survive let alone thrive increasingly bigger …
Isolation by its very definition throws out words like solitary, withdrawn, cut off, detached, lonely ……
When talking to a farmer in rural Cork over the festive period I asked him how he was to celebrate the new year …. His answer summed up a lot about rural isolation in today`s world …
“Sure there`s no point going down for to the pub for a pint , there will be no body there and sure how would I get home anyhow … nah I`ll wait at home like every other night “
While that is but one man’s voice, heartbreakingly it is the reality of many. New Year’s Eve will come and go but lack of social interaction and simply put having nobody to talk to for long periods of time can lead to a very lonely existence. The effect of loneliness on a person is not to be underestimated and can lead to heightening of stress levels, depression, alcohol, and substance abuse and even suicide.
How can we change this? How can we turn this tide?
There is no one for all fix it for this …. The issues and concerns facing each person here are as individual as the people themselves …. So, it`s up to each one to figure out what is best to help them … some may be able to do so alone… some may need some assistance ….
Having someone to talk to is so important, counselling can offer people the outlet to do just that. Taking the first step on this journey is often the most difficult. The first port of call can be your local GP. They can recommend qualified, professional counsellors in your area which can offer a safe, secure space where you can air your concerns. The IACP website can also help you to find a counsellor to suit your needs. Also centres such as Knock Counselling Centre at offers a wide range of counselling services.
One cannot under-estimate the power of a listening ear. One has often heard the old saying “A problem shared is a problem halved.” When we don`t talk about things that are bothering us the negativity associated with these thoughts can build up and fester often exaggerating in our minds. Our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are intrinsically linked. Negative thinking may lead to negative emotions and in turn negative behaviour. Breaking this cycle is not an easy. Counselling is one way to take the first step towards positive change.
For those who may want to take a different path there are other services available to ease rural isolation also. Thirdage provides a senior helpline, run by volunteers that is open 365 days a year from 10am to 10pm. Other organisations like Muintir na Tire and Alone offer a variety of services and many regions have set up local in initiatives to support their local areas. To gain access to these services one needs to reach out and see what is on offer around you, this may involve asking a family member, neighbour, GP or local councillor to do some research to aid someone in need.
One up and coming initiative in this field is very interesting. The Farmer’s Yard is a national movement from the University of Galway which is under development right now. This social initiative will promote social inclusion and in turn wellbeing, in the farming community by allowing farmers to come together as a local peer group in a friendly mart setting. This arena has huge potential and is definitely one to watch out for and follow in the coming months.
To conclude, rural isolation is indeed very prevalent in Ireland today but there is help out there. …. It is up to us to reach out to look after ourselves and look out for one another.
