Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health in Agriculture

For generations, farmers have been seen as strong, resilient providers who work tirelessly to feed and support their communities. But behind that strength, many in agriculture face mental health challenges that often go unseen and unspoken. During Mental Health Awareness Month this May, Superior Ag wants to shine a light on the importance of mental health in agriculture and encourage open conversations about the struggles affecting so many within the farming community.


Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Mental Health Challenges in Agriculture

No matter how persistent and strong local farmers may be, struggling with mental health is more common than most people think. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation Farm State of Mind campaign, “Farmer suicide rates are 2–5 times higher than the national average.” Many stress factors can worsen mental health challenges for farmers, including labor shortages, farm debt, rising prices, natural disasters, long work hours, and uncertainty about crops or livestock. In addition, many farmers live in rural areas with limited access to mental health resources, making it harder to seek support, even where it is needed most. These pressures can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, and feelings of isolation, showing the importance of increasing awareness and support for farmers’ mental health. To help break the stigma, the American Farm Bureau Federation partners with Togetherall, an anonymous peer-to-peer online community that empowers farmers and their families to get and give support. Togetherall provides a supportive community, 24/7 access to real, live, licensed clinicians, and wellbeing tools that help understand how you are feeling.


​Image courtesy of the American Farm Bureau Federation – “Farm State of Mind” initiative.

How You Can Help

Mental Health Awareness Month is not the only time that mental health should be spoken or written about. Mental health struggles can happen at any time, whether in a field, barn, or at home, so it is best to be aware of how you can help yourself, or the ones closest to you. If you feel as though someone close to you is struggling with their mental wellness, there are many things you can do. Look out for any warning signs such as signs of stress, lack of interest in activities or social events, etc. Starting a difficult conversation can feel uncomfortable at times, but it could be a life-changing conversation for others. The American Farm Bureau Federation also provides “Five Steps to Help Someone in Emotional Pain”,

1. Ask – Start the conversation first.
2. Be there – Listen without judgement.
3. Stay connected – Keep in close contact and assure that you are willing to help.
4. Keep them safe – Create time and distance between the person and unwanted stress.
5. Help them connect – Connect the person with resources such as 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline, Farm Aid Hotline, etc.

Available Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please know that support is available and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Whether it is talking to a trusted friend, connecting with a counselor, or contacting a mental health professional, you do not have to go through difficult moments alone. Taking the first step toward help can make a real difference to break the stigma.

Indiana Farm Bureau offers help through these situations and provides many resources you can access HERE, as well providing the contact information for Farm Aid (1-800-327-6243), the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK, and 911 for emergencies.