Editor’s note: This is the final installment of a three-part series in which Farm Progress focuses on mental health awareness among our nation’s farmers and ranchers during Mental Health Month. part 1 It features the stories of two farmers who have battled mental health issues. part 2 Counselors offer tips for dealing with stress.
Mental health professionals are hard to find in rural areas, but help is just a phone call, text message or online chat away.
According to the U.S. Farm Bureau’s 2021 Farmer and Rural Mental Health Report, the majority of rural adults believe that accessibility and availability are barriers to seeking help for mental health conditions. states that Cost remains the biggest barrier, and embarrassment ranks among the top four reasons farmers and ranchers don’t seek outside help.
Governments and the agricultural industry are trying to close the convenience gap, whether in response to a crisis or dealing with everyday stress.
Mental health resources
Two years after the United States launched the National Mental Health Hotline 988, 82% of Americans are still unfamiliar with the hotline, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
The federally mandated crisis number, called 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, became available to all landline and cell phone users in 2022. We provide free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling or texting 988.chat online 988lifeline.org.
This latest hotline is not alone.
Although not a comprehensive list, below are mental health resources designed for farmers and ranchers. Each state typically has a list created by the Department of Agriculture.
In case of emergency, please contact us using the following contact information:
Agricultural assistance hotline. 800-FARM-AID, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
AgriStress Helpline. 833-897-2474 (call or text), 24/7 in Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming.
National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association. 1-800-662-4357 or TTY: 1-800-487-4889, 24/7; samsagob.
Avera Health Farmer Stress Hotline. 800-691-4336
Stress and Crisis: Get Help Now. 833-660-2670. Text FARMSTRESS to 898211
If you have any problems, please visit the following website.
mental health triggers
Farmers have unique stressors, including finances, weather, markets, and family. As symptoms worsen, behavioral changes and physical symptoms may develop if untreated.
Here’s what to look for in yourself or in others.
