Mental Health Resources for Farmers
Protecting farmers' mental health is vital for the success of the agriculture industry.
Mental health has frequently been a topic of conversation in the agricultural community. In a 2023 report, the CDC analyzed data from the 2021 National Vital Statistics System and found that men working in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting were among the industry groups with the highest suicide rates.
When it comes to wellness, it’s important to consider mental and emotional health alongside physical health. Numerous online tools are available to help farmers, ranchers, and others in the agriculture industry take care of their mental health. Below are free resources aimed at assisting farmers.
Farm Aid Hotline
The 1-800-FARM-AID hotline and Farmer Resource Network provide immediate and effective support services to farm families in crisis. They help farmers find the resources they need to access new markets, transition to more sustainable and profitable farming practices, and survive natural disasters.
The hotline is open Monday – Friday from 9am – 9pm EST at 1-800-FARM-AID (1-800-327-6243).
Farm Credit Rural Resilience Training
Farm Credit, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Farmers Union joined together with Michigan State University Extension and University of Illinois Extension to create Rural Resilience, a free, private, online training course to help farmers and those around them cope with stress.
Farm Crisis Center
The Farm Crisis Center has compiled numerous resources for farmers in need ranging from information on government programs to hotline numbers.
The American Farm Bureau Farm State of Mind Campaign
The American Farm Bureau Farm State of Mind campaign builds awareness to reduce stigma and provides access to information and resources that promote farmer and rancher mental health wellness. Their website provides helpful tips, training, peer-to-peer support, and more.
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Farm Stress Management & Resilience Project
The Farm Stress Management & Resilience Project from the Cooperative Extension Service provides various training on mental health topics.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, Farm Credit encourages you to seek out resources and engage with those around you. Farmers are vital; when they thrive, rural America thrives.
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