Farm State of Mind
As any farmer or rancher can tell you, farm life can be demanding and stressful. It has reached a critical stage with pandemic impacts on top of natural disasters, extreme weather events, financial pressures due to fluctuating commodity prices, labor shortages, trade disruptions and other factors over the past several years. Given these ongoing challenges, it’s no surprise that more farmers and farm families are experiencing stress and mental health concerns.
A healthy farm or ranch is nothing without a healthy you.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression or another mental health challenge, you are not alone. Check out the following resources and follow #FarmStateofMind on social media to show your support. A healthy farm or ranch is nothing without a healthy you.
Farm State of Mind Resource Directory
Need Help? Know Someone Who Does?
If there’s a resource you’d like us to consider for this list, please email farmstateofmind@fb.org
Know the Warning Signs
When loved ones, neighbors or others you care about are experiencing mental health challenges, they may not even realize it. Here’s how you can identify someone who may be at risk.
Change in routines or social activities
Decline in the care of domestic animals
Increase in illness or other chronic conditions
Increase in farm accidents
Decline in appearance of the farmstead
Decreased interest in activities or events
Signs of stress in children including struggles with school
Learn more about recognizing the signs of chronic stress, depression or suicidal intent and what you can do to help at NY FarmNet.
Start the Conversation
Although it may feel like it’s out of your comfort zone, you can start a conversation in any number of ways:
Remind Them of Something They’ve Said and Express Interest
"You mentioned no one seems to understand what you're going through. I want you to know you can talk to me."
— Adrienne DeSutter,
Illinois Farm Bureau Member
"I’ve noticed you haven't been the same lately. Are you okay? I really value you and our friendship and want you to know that I am always here for you."
— Brandon Fullenkamp,
Ohio Farm Bureau Member
Acknowledge What They’re Going Through
"Hey, how have you been handling all of this lately? I know it's been some tough times, can I help in any way?"
— Shelby Watson,
Maryland Farm Bureau Member
“Farmers think that it's a sign of weakness to ask for help. But actually, I think that it's the exact opposite because anything that is hard takes strength. Taking that hard step and reaching out is what saved me.”
— James Dixon,
Arkansas Farm Bureau Member
Share a habit you’ve seen change. Don’t wait for them to ask for help. If they’re willing to reach out, encourage them. Try not to compare their challenges to someone else’s, or minimize what they’re going through.
What matters most is showing genuine care and empathy, and listening.
Five Steps to Help Someone in Emotional Pain
Ask
Be there
Stay connected
Keep them safe
Help them connect
Visit the National Institute of Mental Health website for more information.
Research
National Poll Shows Encouraging Signs of Reduced Stigma Around Farmer Mental Health
Farmers and people in rural areas are more comfortable talking about stress and mental health challenges with others, and stigma around seeking help or treatment has decreased in rural and farm communities, but it is still a factor. These were some of the findings of a new American Farm Bureau Federation research poll conducted by Morning Consult among a national sample of 2,000 rural adults. The poll results were compared with previous surveys AFBF conducted in 2019 and 2020 on the impacts of the rural economy and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on farmer mental health.
National Poll Reveals Promising Trends in Rural Opioid Misuse; More Work Needed
After five years of outreach and education by farm groups, a new poll shows increased awareness and willingness to talk about the opioid crisis among rural adults, compared to 2017. Sixty percent say adults in their community are more aware of the crisis than they were five years ago, and nearly 8 in 10 adults (77%) report feeling comfortable having a conversation about opioids.
Rural Resilience Training
Recognizing the high levels of stress affecting America’s farmers and ranchers, Farm Credit, American Farm Bureau Federation and National Farmers Union partnered on a program to train individuals who interact with farmers and ranchers, providing them with the skills to:
- Understand the sources of stress
- Identify effective communication strategies
- Reduce stigma related to mental health
- Learn the warning signs of stress and suicide
Coping with Stress and Anxiety
Healthy Ways to Cope
Connect with others
Take breaks from negative news or influences
Prioritize your health and well-being
Take time to unwind
Recognize when you need more help
