Breaking the silence: Supporting mental health in agriculture

Farmers and ranchers are known for being resilient, independent and strong. But these same attributes can make it difficult to ask for help during a mental health crisis, sometimes with devastating outcomes.

Ignoring mental health or taking an “I’ll be fine” approach can come at a heavy cost. Data from the National Rural Health Association shows that farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. But by understanding the unique challenges they face, we can better support our neighbors and the broader agricultural community.

New stressors compound old challenges

Traditionally, farm stress has been linked to social isolation, advanced age, chronic medical conditions and extreme weather. But today, many farmers are facing additional mental health strain from current marketplace factors like:

• The margin squeeze. Crop prices are tight and input costs are high, especially for diesel fuel and fertilizer. Seventy percent of farmers say they currently can’t afford all the fertilizer they need. Coupled with high interest rates, debt servicing and operating loans create immediate cash flow anxiety.
• Trade policy tensions. Ongoing trade friction with major importers creates constant uncertainty. Shifting geopolitical relations and market reactions can quickly devalue a crop sitting in storage.
• Legislative uncertainty. Delays surrounding the federal farm bill can leave farmers guessing about long-term financial planning. Without updated reference prices or clear safety net programs, risk management can be a major stressor.
• Labor scarcity. Finding and retaining skilled labor is a chronic issue. Programs like the H-2A visa provide a lifeline, but maintaining the right workforce is a huge source of stress for many farmers.
• Tax policy and succession planning. Multi-generational farms face constant worry over tax legislation, especially when it comes to succession planning.

“Successfully operating a farm, ranch or dairy is stressful enough. Now when we add more recent stressors like trade policy and labor issues, it can become almost impossible to bear. That’s why it’s so important to create an atmosphere where all farmers can talk about their mental health challenges,” said Jeff Winton, Founder and Chairman of Rural Minds, a national nonprofit organization focusing on mental health equity for rural Americans. “Labor issues are one of the toughest challenges facing farmers now. We already had a shortage, so now it’s exacerbated.”

Overcoming the stigma of mental health in farming

Taking that first step can be difficult. The farming community has long carried a stigma that equates mental health awareness with vulnerability and weakness, preventing many from seeking help. Overcoming this stigma is crucial to creating an environment where farmers can address their mental health without fear or shame.

"Farming is often a solitary profession where stress and isolation can quietly build into severe anxiety or depression," said Winton, a New York Farm Bureau member who also operates Wall Street Dairy in Chautauqua County, New York. "The stigma surrounding mental health care in our industry is a massive barrier. Breaking it down requires us to work together and actively prioritize the well-being of our community."

How to help a farmer in need

If you suspect a fellow farmer or rancher is struggling, reaching out can make a life-saving difference. Here are a few ways you can offer support:

• Listen intently. Give them your full attention and let them share without interruption.
• Ask questions. Show you care by asking thoughtful, open-ended questions.
• Keep an open mind. Avoid judgment and focus on understanding their perspective.
• Encourage self-care. Gently suggest they take time for themselves.
• Avoid compassion fatigue. Remember to take care of your own mental health as you support others.

If you or someone you know is dealing with anxiety or depression, help is available. Visit American Farm Bureau Farm State of Mind, call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. To learn more about Winton’s organization, visit RuralMinds.org.