Old strains come with a new year | OPINION

The full western gear, the roughed-up hands, the RM boots and even the slight country drawl.

Anyone meeting old mate for the first time would instantly classify him as the iconic laidback, Aussie bushman; not a care in the world, rich in skills, full of yarns and an appreciation of nature.

Few would guess he didn't sleep much at night.

The outpouring of conversation was never really too long or deep which meant few things were given away, especially not inner secrets about anxiety or worry.

Yet some slight comments dropped here and there, plus insight from caring family members, painted a picture of a bloke who might have been struggling to keep it altogether.

Tears wouldn't be too far below the surface if a few pressure points happened to be touched upon, so talk was often swiftly veered toward the weather and diesel prices.

Those topics in themselves though perhaps weren't much help, both being issues of concern.

He'd worked hard for what he had and was proud of that.

It was just the constant nagging of doubts, worries, grim future forecasts and uncertainty that chipped away within.

He'd get on with it though, because that's what he'd always done.

This bloke is not atypical. While generally far from the arts community and actors upon a stage, primary producers are often very adept at putting on a front themselves.

It's a dangerous place to be in; statistics will show the mental health of farmers is a major health concern.

As the new year continues to unfurl with all its promise of good fortune and fresh starts, it will present more hardships for those on the land.

They will come from a variety of sources; political, financial, weather, overseas factors, family and the media, to name a few.

Now is the time to do a check-in for those embarking on another year of etching a crust from the land.

But perhaps simply "checking in" isn't enough?

Maybe a regular catch-up, the invitation to book a doctor's appointment, plus ongoing, sustained care and communication would be a more solid way forward.

The casual drop-in, be it physically or digitally, may get someone through that moment, that day, but true follow-up care is going to take some perseverance, some sacrifice.

And in a seemingly time-poor society, individuals willing to give beyond themselves are a rare commodity.

Still, every bit helps and no one should be discouraged from connecting and positively supporting another human.

So don't assume the quiet bushy, the softly spoken woman or man of the land is completely content and grounded. Ask the question, listen actively and follow up if needed.