Author: Bethany Funkhouser, Area Agribusiness Agent
According to Farm Bureau, multiple studies show that farmer suicide rates are 2-5 times higher than the national average. There are countless factors, such as natural disasters, fluctuating prices, and much more, that make farming an extremely stressful occupation.
May is mental health awareness month. This year has been extremely difficult for many farmers. While that’s known within the farming world and even outside the farming world, there is still a stigma around speaking out about mental health challenges. Yet so many people around us are struggling. Whether it’s a farmer who has been farming for 50 years or 2 years. Or even a farmer trying to keep a family farm that has been around for 150 years, or a farmer starting one from scratch. Someone you know is facing mental health challenges, and you may not even know.
Let’s take this month to recognize and understand the resources for farmers facing mental health crises. Check on your neighbor, your friend, your family. Share resources that might make a difference for someone. And if you are facing any mental health challenges, these resources are for you, too. Don’t be afraid to use any of these resources or reach out to a loved one and/ or someone you trust.
Resources
If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by dialing 9-1-1.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1 (800) 273-8255 (TALK)
- SC Farm Bureau: Free counseling services for farmers and farm families: 1 (800) 968-8143
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1 (800) 273-8255, Press 1
National Suicide Prevention Resources
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Crisis Chat
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – About Suicide
- Crisis Text Line: Text “LEV” to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line
SC Suicide Prevention Resources
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or have suicidal thoughts, reach out for help locally:
SC Farm Bureau – SC AgriWellness Program
Free counseling services for farmers and farm families. Call 1-800-968-8143 to be connected with a trained professional. Mention that you are calling as part of the SC AgriWellness program. Click here for more information
Farm Bureau State of Mind
The American Farm Bureau Farm State of Mind campaign builds awareness to reduce stigma and provides access to information and resources that promote farmer and rancher mental health wellness, which can be found here.
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