Four in ten Irish trainers showing signs of depression, report reveals

An unprecedented study into the mental wellbeing of Irish trainers has revealed that four out of ten display the symptoms of depression, with 38 per cent also showing signs of adverse alcohol use.

The survey of 124 trainers suggested depression may be a greater issue in Ireland than other racing jurisdictions, citing previous research relating to Australian racing.

The study has been described as compelling reading but not entirely surprising by Irish Racehorse Trainers Association chief executive Michael Grassick, who praised the research and believes a defined break at the end of the Flat and jumps season would be beneficial for the wellbeing of the sport's participants.

Trainers with financial difficulties, reported as two-thirds of those who took part in the study, were between five and 16 times more likely to meet the criteria for distress, depression, or generalised anxiety than others.

The overall levels of depressive symptoms were higher than comparable rural occupations such as farming, with 32 per cent of trainers meeting the criteria for at least two common mental health disorders (CMDs) despite 78 per cent stating they are satisfied with their career.

The paper's lead author, Waterford Institute of Technology PhD student Lewis King, has been supported in his studies by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board and last year published findings from a study that found 79 per cent of Irish jockeys meet criteria for a CMD.

"It's very comprehensive but there's nothing there that surprises me, having been a trainer myself for 35 years and knowing the different pressures that trainers are under," said Grassick of the latest research.

"I rang [IHRB senior medical officer] Jennifer Pugh and congratulated her on the paper. It's compelling reading and something that we all need to sit down and have a look at where we're going."

The full paper, Racehorse Trainer Mental Health: Prevalence and Risk Factors, can be accessed here

Nearly half the trainers surveyed reported not having a period of three days or more holiday from work in the previous year, while 73 per cent reported not having a day off work in the previous two weeks.

"I feel that a break for the Flat and National Hunt seasons should be reconsidered," said Grassick.

"Everybody – jockeys and trainers – needs a break and the seasons could be broken for a couple of weeks in both codes to give everyone time. It's relentless and once you start, you can't get off the wheel. If you don't participate, someone will be there to take your place."

Michael Grassick: calling for a break at the end of both the Flat and jumps seasonsCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

One fifth of the participants had accessed a mental health professional for support regarding their personal or emotional problems, with a doctor consultation the most common selection (15 per cent).

The paper suggests future research into the factors that may inhibit trainers accessing support services could be worthwhile, although a 24/7 helpline is already available to anyone who works in the racing industry.

King said: "There are multiple sectors within the racing industry and I'm hoping this study highlights the need for us to begin to understand all of them a little more, especially at the moment with all that's going on with the pandemic.

"Everyone reports the training industry to be demanding and stressful, but other than this study and a couple of others done in Australia, there's very limited research on the group so it's good to get this out there."

Horse Racing Ireland's free Industry Assistance Programme offers access to trained counsellors, psychotherapists and information specialists, providing practical and emotional support for any life challenges users may be dealing with.

To access their support, freephone 1800 303 588 (Republic of Ireland) or 0800 243 458 (Northern Ireland).

Read more on Irish racing:

Willie Mullins: 'Two years ago I'd given up on the dream of winning a Gold Cup'

Saint Roi out of Champion Hurdle with new French recruit waiting in the wings

Smith 'gutted' as Ronald Pump is ruled out of Stayers' Hurdle through injury

Ride of the decade contender as ironless Morgan's mount defies high of 499-1

For all our exclusive free bet offers and must-have daily promotions click the free bets button or go to racingpost.com/freebets