Video: Foundations of Mental Strength: Why understanding your emotions can make life feel lighter

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why you're feeling the way you are?

In this conversation, psychotherapist Kirsty Ritchie from Mind & Mission is joined by Caitlin Hume, who recently completed the Foundations of Mental Strength programme developed by Mind & Mission in partnership with Farmstrong Scotland.

Together they explore how taking a moment to pause, understand your emotions and reconnect with what matters most can help you navigate the pressures of farming, work and everyday life.

Whether you're running a farm, supporting a family, managing a business or simply trying to juggle life's demands, this conversation shows how understanding your mental strength isn't about being "emotional". It's about recognising what's happening beneath the surface and using practical tools to respond in a healthier way.

What's covered in this video?

During the discussion Kirsty and Caitlin talk about:

• Why understanding your emotions can help you make better decisions.
• The power of pausing before reacting when life feels overwhelming.
• How recognising what you're really feeling can reduce stress and frustration.
• Why your personal values can help guide difficult decisions.
• How the programme has helped both professionally and personally.
• Why mental wellbeing isn't "fluffy" and why it's relevant to everyone

"Life can feel lighter"

One of Caitlin's biggest takeaways from the programme was learning to stop and ask herself what was really going on.

Instead of becoming caught in a spiral of stress, she explains how taking a moment to pause helps her understand why she's feeling frustrated, exhausted or overwhelmed.

That simple shift has changed the way she approaches challenges at work, supports others and makes decisions about the future.

Mental strength is for everyone

Many people still believe that conversations about mental health aren't for them.

As Kirsty explains, the Foundations of Mental Strength programme isn't about telling people how they should feel. It's about helping people understand the messages behind their emotions and giving them practical tools they can use every day.

For people working in agriculture, where the pressures of weather, policy changes, finances and family life can quickly build, those tools can make a real difference.

Find out more about Foundations of Mental Strength

The Foundations of Mental Strength programme was developed by Mind & Mission in partnership with Farmstrong Scotland and is funded through the Scottish Government's Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund (KTIF).

The programme is delivered as six practical workshops that can be completed as a full programme or as individual sessions, helping participants build practical skills to support their mental wellbeing.

If you're interested in taking part, Farmstrong Scotland works with businesses, organisations, groups and communities across Scotland to deliver the programme.

Take a look at our training and workshop menu to find out how you can get involved.