Weathering the Storm Together

As we approach Mental Health Awareness Month (May), I’ve been thinking a lot about the weight so many farmers and ranchers are carrying right now. Farming is rewarding work, but it can also feel overwhelming. Markets shift overnight. Weather can wipe out months of hard work. Costs keep climbing. Too often, the stress builds quietly while we keep pushing forward, because that’s just what farmers do.

That’s why Farm Bureau continues to invest in resources that support the wellbeing of farm families and rural communities. And this Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re unveiling a new resource dedicated to helping farmers consider how to respond to stress before it reaches a breaking point. It’s called the Farm State of Mind Checklist: Weathering the Storm.

The checklist was shaped by the experiences of farmers and ranchers, along with guidance from mental health professionals. It’s built around simple, practical reminders that can help people take small steps toward managing stress, preventing burnout, and finding clarity during difficult seasons.

Weathering the Storm, One Step at a Time

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that mental health conversations do not have to start with big speeches or perfect answers. Sometimes they start with small actions. That’s the idea behind this checklist.

The first reminder is to nourish yourself. Farmers are good at taking care of crops, livestock and equipment, but we are not always good at taking care of our own physical wellbeing. Getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and fueling your body matters.

The checklist also encourages people to move. Physical activity has always helped clear my mind, whether that means walking the farm, working outside, or throwing the ball with my dog, Ziggy.

Another reminder is to unplug. In agriculture, it can feel like there is no off switch. But stepping away from the stress of the farm for even a short time can make a difference.

It also encourages people to pause. That might mean prayer, quiet reflection, or taking a moment to breathe before jumping into the next challenge.

And maybe most importantly, it reminds us to connect and share. For me, that lesson became especially clear after losing my first wife, Bonnie, to cancer. The support of my family, friends, and community helped carry me through some of the hardest days of my life. None of us are meant to weather these storms alone.

Supporting Mental Health in Rural America

I’m so proud of Farm Bureau’s work through the Farm State of Mind Alliance, which brings together some of the largest membership organizations serving the farm community nationwide to reduce the stigma around mental health in rural communities and connect farm families with support and resources. One resource available through Farm State of Mind is Togetherall, a 24/7 online peer-to-peer community where farmers and ranchers can talk anonymously with others who understand what they’re going through. Farmers can also access counseling support, life coaching and professional consultations through Togetherall. These services are completely free to farm families across the country.

Sometimes the hardest part is taking that first step. That's why I encourage farmers and ranchers to check out Farm State of Mind and sign up for a Togetherall account before hitting a breaking point. Having those resources already at your fingertips can make all the difference on the hard days.

These resources matter because stress in agriculture is real. Unpredictability, financial pressure and isolation can take a toll on farmers and ranchers and their families. And with USDA projecting farm income this year to be $48 billion below the highs we saw in 2022, many farm families are carrying even more financial strain and uncertainty into an already difficult season.

But we know the strength of rural communities is real, too. When farmers check in on one another, share their stories and encourage each other to seek support, it reminds each of us that we are not alone. Sometimes a conversation can make all the difference.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage you to take a few moments to check in on yourself and the people around you. Share the Farm State of Mind Checklist with a friend or neighbor. Start a conversation. Reach out if someone is struggling. And if you need support yourself, know there are people ready to listen and help. No one should have to weather the storm alone.