The HAY Campaign is our commitment to making mental health a central conversation in the equestrian community. We aim to provide resources, break stigma, and create safe spaces for equestrians to reach out, share, and find help.
Create a safe, inclusive space for equestrians to share struggles and seek help.
Normalise mental health conversations and empower individuals to seek support.
Push forward initiatives like Mental Health Week, surveys, and practical resources.
Build genuine connections through initiatives like "Hay How Are Ya" and shared resources.
Encourages asking "How are you?" in the equestrian world and taking the time to listen. Thousands have shared stories using #HayHowAreYa, normalising mental health conversations.
Highlighted specific challenges in the equestrian world. Key findings: 60% experienced mental health struggles, 40% feel unable to discuss challenges, 75% felt more stressed due to competition.
The third Monday in January is HAY Monday. An annual weekly event with livestreams, interviews, discussions, and examining resources. Growing yearly with more partners and professionals involved.
Backed initially by organisations like Horse Sport Ireland, Horse Racing Ireland, SJI, EI, DI, BHS and many more. We have Mental health experts, corporate partners, and volunteers sharing personal stories.
Continuously improving access to resources and creating more inclusive spaces in the equestrian community. We have to do more and we need to be more consistent in getting people struggling to talk and open up.
Develop more accessible, tailored resources including virtual workshops and self-care tools.
Keep the conversation alive year-round with more outreach, surveys, and community events.
Form partnerships to amplify our message and ensure more equestrians have support.
Launching a monthly mental health e-book for equestrians. 75% of all subscription payments will fund Mental Health Initiatives.
We need an Equestrian chat line
From Mental Health Issues
We need to do more
If you're a person or sponsor that wants to support mental health for equestrians nationwide, please reach out to us and be part of the solution.
If you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek support. You're not alone in this journey. Talking is so important as is listening. Lets change the stigma together.
Be part of the change. Use #HayHowAreYa to connect and support others. Send us a message on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook if you'd like to get involved. Email will be available soon.
The HAY Campaign: A Voice for Mental Health in Equestrian Life