Let’s Talk: Equestrian Mental Health Week Begins

This week marks the beginning of Equestrian Mental Health Week—a time to shine a spotlight on the unique mental health challenges faced by our equestrian community. To support this vital conversation, we are proud to say that last year, Equitas created The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet and wanted to bring it to the forefront during this very important week.
This booklet is a comprehensive resource which was created by professionals and designed for every rider, trainer, and equine enthusiast navigating life’s emotional hurdles. It is FREE TO DOWNLOAD and accessible to all. Whether you’re an equestrian yourself or supporting someone in the industry, sharing this resource can make a world of difference

“I can’t stress enough, that reaching out is the hardest and bravest thing someone can do.”
- Shane Rooney, Co-Founder of The HAY Campaign

Equestrian life is extraordinary, but it’s not without its challenges: long hours, financial pressures, and the emotional highs and lows of working with horses. For many, the drive to “push through” often overshadows the importance of mental health. That’s why this booklet exists—to remind us that seeking help is not a weakness but a sign of strength.

The equestrian mental health booklet is a product of "The HAY How Are Ya?” Equestrian Mental Health Campaign. This is a groundbreaking initiative, which strives to enhance the understanding and awareness of mental health and well-being of Equestrians.

It is aimed at individuals in the equestrian community who are going through a tough time, who may feel isolated, who may be dealing with stressors, pressures, anxiety and grief aligning to equestrian life.

In the process of planning this initiative, we conducted a comprehensive nationwide survey across all levels and all disciplines within the equestrian community to gauge the awareness and attitudes of equestrians towards mental health. The responses were varied.

Download your free copy of The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet

What’s Inside?

The booklet is packed with valuable insights, including:

• Real Stories: Brave individuals sharing their personal journeys with mental health, grief, and recovery.
• Practical Tools: Coping strategies like mindfulness, breathing techniques, and self-care plans.
• Support Resources: A list of organisations and helplines tailored to equestrians.
• The HAY Campaign: The HAY - How Are Ya? Campaign is a grassroots initiative that aims to foster open conversations about mental health within the equestrian community. Founded on the simple yet powerful question, "How Are Ya?", the campaign seeks to break down stigma and provide resources for those facing mental health challenges. From launching the world’s first Equestrian Mental Health Week to uniting governing bodies and offering industry-wide surveys, the HAY Campaign continues to champion connection, support, and actionable change. Learn more about the HAY Campaign’s ongoing efforts to foster mental health awareness here.

Why It Matters

Did you know that 67% of equestrians have struggled with their mental health? Or that 88% believe there’s a lack of accessible support? These numbers are not just statistics—they represent our friends, peers, and mentors in the equestrian community. With The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet, we’re taking a step toward breaking the stigma and providing meaningful resources for everyone.

“9 out of 10 equestrians wish for an anonymous helpline tailored to their struggles.”

Download your free copy of The Equestrian Mental Health Booklet

Let’s come together, start conversations, and make mental health a priority—not just this week, but every week.

Together, we can create a stronger, more supportive equestrian community.

#HAYHowAreYa | #EquestrianMentalHealth | #TheHayCampaign