Rural people are being urged to check on their neighbours, farmers and farm workers.

This follows pleas from farming groups to stressed workers to speak up if they need support in the wake of a series of deaths of young men across the country.

It's understood four farmers died suddenly in the past few weeks, including a Hamilton City Young Farmer member, and a popular rodeo competitor in Canterbury.

Rural Women New Zealand chair Penny Mudford says they rely on the rural community to look after people.

"We are aware that from time to time there are people that have difficulty. It's a difficult time of year for farmers and farm workers, in a time where people shouldn't be alone.

"It's men who have been affected at the moment but it's actually a very stressful time for women as well.

"Everyone needs to check on their neighbours, and their family and their farmworkers, particularly before Christmas because it can be very stressful."

If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call police immediately on 111.

Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

Or if you need to talk to someone else:

Lifeline – 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Youthline – 0800 376 633 or free text 234
Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (for under 18s)
What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18 year olds 1pm–10pm weekdays and 3pm–10pm weekends)
Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
OUTLine NZ – 0800 688 5463
Healthline – 0800 611 116