By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

From waiting on rain to the long work hours and financial challenges, farmers and ranchers experience many stressors.

A study released by the American Farm Bureau Federation noted a majority of rural adults (52%) and farmers/farm workers (61%) are experiencing more stress and mental health challenges, and they are seeking care because of increased stress.

“Mental health is just as important as our physical health, and it’s something that we can tangibly work on each day,” Shelbie Lambert, Outreach Education coordinator at the Southwest Center for Agricultural Health, Injury Prevention and Education (Southwest Ag Center) said. “I think, most importantly, as family members, friends of producers and producers themselves, is really familiarizing ourselves with the signs and symptoms of stress, whether it’s acute or chronic stress.”

She noted the importance in understanding warning signs of suicide.

Warning signs can include: 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 and decreased interest in activities or events.

Southwest Ag Center created the first crisis helpline that is personalized for individuals in agriculture.

“Now that the AgriStress Helpline is available, it’s the first crisis helpline for agricultural workers in Texas,” Lambert said. “It isn’t just a line to call for suicide prevention. If you are struggling with your mental health, really stressed out or looking for outside help, an anonymous source, then this is a great line to call.”

Everyone who answers the helpline is familiar with agriculture and the challenges farmers and ranchers face.

The helpline is free and open 24/7.

The AgriStress Helpline also can help farmers and ranchers connect with a virtual counselor and additional resources in their area.

Additional information
Stress and mental health resources are available to farmers and ranchers.

For more information about stress, mental health and warning signs, visit AFBF’s Farm State of Mind at fb.org/land/fsom or Southwest Ag Center’s informational page at farmlifehelp.com.

Learn more about recognizing the signs of chronic stress, depression or suicidal intent and what you can do to help at nyfarmnet.org/farm-stress.

The AgriStress Helpline is available 24/7 at 833-897-2474.

You can also call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 or 800-273-8255.