New York Farm Bureau (NYFB) and NY FarmNet, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, have launched a campaign to run for the month of May that focuses on the resources available to farmers and their families who struggle with mental health issues.
A 2021 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) survey titled “Farmer and Rural Perceptions of Mental Health” found that a majority of rural adults (59%) say there is at least some stigma around stress and mental health in the agriculture community, including 63% of farmers/farm workers. And, while there was an 11% decrease in farmers/farm workers who say stigma is an obstacle to seeking help or treatment for a mental health condition, nearly two-thirds agree it is still an obstacle.
NYFB President David Fisher said the importance of mental health awareness in the farming community is clear.
“Most people know that farming is a challenging occupation, but few outside the world of agriculture truly understand the struggles farmers can face every day. Changing and often unpredictable weather patterns, crop-damaging pests, equipment breakdowns and accidents, family dynamics, and especially financial worries are all potential stressors for farmers,” Fisher said. “With the help of NY FarmNet, we at Farm Bureau want to remind those who are struggling that there are resources and people available to help you. We also encourage you to check in on your friends and neighbors – just sharing a cup of coffee or a simple conversation can go a long way.
”NY FarmNet connects farmers with a multitude of resources, from mental health counselors to financial advisors. NY FarmNet family consultants provide services and support at no cost to the farmer and are completely confidential. They also offer many educational sessions throughout the year, including “Talk Saves Lives,” a one-hour training presentation that provides attendees with a community-based approach to suicide awareness and prevention.
NY FarmNet can be reached at 800-547-3276 or nyfarmnet@cornell.edu. NY FarmNet Outreach Director Adam Howell emphasizes, however, that the organization is not a crisis intervention service, and that those in immediate need should call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
Visit https://www.nyfarmnet.org/farm-stress for warning signs of stress as they may occur in farmers and ways to help.
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