Trigger Warning: This episode contains content about suicide. "The black dog follows you...and hangs close on your flying skirts with hungry fangs". So said the ancient Roman poet Horace some 2000 years ago, as he struggled with his own 'inner demons'. Yet even today, despite our growing understanding around the science and prevalence of mental health issues, many rural and remote Australian's still wrestle with the social stigma and inter-generational pressures of THEIR black dogs. And for those country blokes who live and work in isolation and under pressure - including our farmers, miners and truckies - feelings of anxiety, stress, depression and despair can often feel overwhelming. Buckling under the inter-generational expectations of his family's farm, Wes Herring was one of those blokes - and he openly admits he HAS been to hell and back. But he's still here. He's still farming. And these days, Wes is soothing HIS savage beast with a feast of thoughtfully penned and inspiring bush poetry.

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Thanks so much for listening to this episode of the Flying Doctor Podcast. It is lovely to have you along on the journey with us. In an emergency, always call 000. If you or anyone you know needs help, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line 13YARN. You can also reach out anytime to your local RFDS health clinic or connect with others via the RFDS mental health support program We've Got Your Back | Facebook To buy Wes's new book, you can text or call him on 0408 218 019. There has been some wonderful feedback from listeners about our podcast and the incredible people we have interviewed. Word of mouth is always the best promotion for a podcast – so if you enjoy this podcast, or a specific story, please share with family and friends. Reviews and ratings help our podcast to be found by others, so if you can take the time to do that it would be appreciated. You can also send feedback, questions or comments through to [email protected]. We'd also love you to become part of the Flying Doctor Podcast Facebook group, where passionate listeners and incredible outback communities come together.

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