More than 60 per cent of greenkeepers, PGA professionals and club managers have experienced increased work-related mental health problems in the past year, a new survey by Syngenta has found. Of these, nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) said they had felt anxious or worried; 57 per cent said they experienced sleep problems and 43 per cent said they had felt depressed with a continuous low mood. Three of the 256 respondents admitted thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
The online survey, which was anonymous, also found that only nine per cent of respondents had sought professional counselling in the previous six months, and while two-thirds (68 per cent) of respondents said their organisation or employer should offer mental health training and support, only 21 per cent confirmed their employer did have a mental health policy or wellbeing program.
Mark Birchmore, Syngenta global head of marketing, turf and kandscape, who commissioned the survey, said: “While this is a snapshot survey, it provides evidence of what we have been hearing anecdotally throughout the pandemic, that mental health problems are prevalent. I’m especially worried for the three industry colleagues who reported the most severe symptoms and I would encourage anyone in this situation to urgently seek professional advice.
“For the industry, the survey highlights a potential gap between the prevalence of mental health problems and the level of support available. As an organisation, this is something Syngenta is addressing with accredited Mental Health First Aiders within our team, as well supporting important industry initiatives, including the online Mindful Leadership Sessions by the Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association.
“But there is more to be done globally, which is why we are sharing the results of the survey with the golf industry, including bodies and associations, with a view to encouraging solutions.”
