Cultivating Better Support
Farmers are often seen as the embodiment of resilience and independence. Yet, the same self-sufficiency and pride that define agriculture can also create stigma around expressing emotions and discourage seeking help for mental health challenges.
Farmers are the backbone of America, ensuring food security by providing nutritious crops and sustaining our communities. It’s paramount that we support one another. Farming is filled with uncertainty and ever-evolving obstacles. It’s a physically and emotionally demanding job with long hours that can often feel isolating. This line of work comes with unique circumstances, such as extreme weather, pest and disease outbreaks, and market volatility, which put farmers at high risk of chronic stress, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers and agricultural workers have a suicide rate that’s 3.5 times higher than the general population.
The culture of toughness in agriculture often prevents many individuals experiencing depression and anxiety from seeking help. But what if true strength was measured by our ability to have open, sometimes uncomfortable, conversations and reach out for help when it’s needed most? We know the work on a farm never stops, but prioritizing time for your well-being and for checking in on friends and neighbors is essential.
Signs of declining mental health in agricultural workers include:
- Decline in the care of crops, animals, and farm
- Deterioration of personal appearance
- Changes in routine or withdrawing from social events
- Lack of focus and motivation
- Increase in alcohol use
- Chronic illness
- Low energy
- Irritability or anger
- Giving away prized possessions
By fostering supportive environments, we can work together to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in agriculture. Small actions can make a profound difference; never underestimate the power of letting someone know you care and that they are not alone in their adversity. Don’t hesitate to start the conversation. Reach out for support and resources when you’re experiencing negative feelings and encourage others to do the same.
Resources for Agricultural Workers:
Farm Aid:
Unwavering since 1985, Farm Aid’s mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid offers a farmer hotline (1-800-FARM-AID and farmhelp@farmaid.org) and the Farmer Resources Network to provide immediate assistance to farmers in crisis, including emotional support, referrals to legal and financial resources, and emergency funds.
Hotline hours:
English: Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm EST
Spanish: Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm EST
Click here to request assistance online.
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 mental health wellness. Their website features a directory of rural mental health resources in every U.S. state and Puerto Rico.
Click here to view the directory.
Farm Stress Real Talk Podcast
Created by Penn State Extension’s Farm Stress Team, this podcast aims to support farmers, farm families, and workers in the commercial agriculture industry who are experiencing stress. Each episode dives into a challenging topic for the farming community and offers constructive suggestions.
How to Listen:
Find Farm Stress Real Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.
Click here to listen and download episodes.
This article is from the March Edition of Growing Forward.
