There is a discussion that needs to be had here in America. It can be hard to discuss, painful even for some, while others might finally rejoice about the ability to unburden themselves without judgment.This discussion is about mental health and its importance in health, wellness and society as a whole. For much too long, farmers, especially men, were left out of the discussions about mental health. Men of all careers are often left out of these discussions.
The average age of a U.S. farmer is 57.5 years and many are much older (USDA, 2021). There are stories from rural communities about farmers, sometimes entire generations of men, dying by suicide or “accidents” during routine chores.
According to the Center for Disease Control, farmers are most likely to die by suicide, and the rates of farmer suicides have risen by 40 percent in less than two decades.
Farmers face indescribable amounts of stress. Weather, fuel prices, fertilizers costs, machinery repair, seed values, natural disasters, inflation, government policies, lack of employees, and home life are out of the control of the farmer but impact their ability to provide a living for their families.
These stressors may appear and feel completely overwhelming and often there does not seem to be an end in sight for many caught in this cycle. It can make someone who can control a 15,000-pound tractor feel absolutely powerless and weak.
Every life lost to suicide or as a repercussion of a mental health disorder, is one life too many.
If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness, depression, anxiety or mental health, there are ways to get help.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.8255
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
If texting is preferred, text HOME to 741741
Learn more about the Lifeline & 988