Recent research from Flinders University also shows that farmers are more likely to commit suicide than people living in rural towns.

Dr Keith Miller conducted extensive research into rates of on-farm suicide because previously no figures existed.

"Many studies have been done comparing the rates between urban and rural (communities) but there was no statistics indicating the proportion of farm-related suicides," Dr Miller said.

"The research confirms the message of the farming community - that the rate of suicide among farming communities is much higher than rural rates."

Dr Miller said social isolation among farmers was a major factor contributing to depression. South Australian farmers had reported less contact with neighbours because of increased workloads and the exodus of people from the land.

"A lot of workers have been laid off in tough times and there are less people to talk to and more work to do," Dr Miller said.

Based on his statistics, 21 farmers per 1000 people will take their lives, compared with 14.5/100,000 for rural community members.

In an ailing economy, compounded by extended drought, the figures require an urgent response, Dr Miller said.

And in timely fashion, the Salvation Army will raise awareness bells in rural Australia.

More than 500,000 free DVDs aimed at combating depression in the bush will be distributed to rural homes in the New Year.

* Extract from a full report in Stock Journal, November 20 issue.