These alarming statistics, and the conversations we have had with farmers and ranchers across the country, led us to dedicate this special issue of Progressive Farmer magazine, “A Beacon of Hope,” to the critical issue of rural mental health. Dedicated to tackling problems. This month coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month, and green ribbons appear throughout this issue.
Mental health is not an easy subject to talk about, no matter where you live. It can be especially difficult in rural areas because of the prejudices of those around you. However, farmers and ranchers face unique challenges beyond their control that cause significant stress that can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Extreme weather events can damage or wipe out entire crops and injure or kill livestock. Prices for crops and livestock may fall to levels that do not cover production costs. Government regulations can add additional costs and red tape to your business. Input costs can rise and eat into your hard-earned profits.
Rural culture teaches us to be tough and pull ourselves up through difficult times like these. That attitude will help you as you approach the day-to-day tasks associated with farming and ranching. But when it comes to our mental health, and for that matter our overall health, acting alone can have dire, even fatal consequences.
Help is available to help prevent such tragic outcomes. Just ask farmers Bob Worth and Nathan Brown. In this issue, they share their stories about how they tackled mental health issues and were able to overcome them thanks to the support of professional therapists and the community. For them, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
We hope this special issue provides useful information on how to maintain your mental health, recognize when something is wrong, and find the right help when you need it. We also hope to encourage open and shameless conversations among farmers and ranchers about this important topic.
As I and many others who have lost loved ones to suicide, like my uncle Arn, have sadly learned, remaining silent about mental health issues can have devastating consequences. Let's work together to eliminate the stigma surrounding this important topic and bring a ray of hope to those suffering.
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— Anthony can be reached by email at anthony.greder@dtn.com or on social platforms X @AGrederDTN.
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