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Number of farmers accessing mental health services on the rise
The deputy director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture says more farmers are reaching out for mental health resources.
Kristi Jones tells Brownfield, “We’re seeing an increase in telehealth and in-person sessions utilized.”
She says the agency is continuing to promote several free resources available to help farmers that might be struggling.
“We know with the farm economy, there are needs, there are struggles, and people should not have any embarrassment or shame in picking up the phone,” she says.
Jones says in Illinois, farmers can call 833-FARM-SOS.
“It’s there 24-7.” She says, “That phone call can then lead to six no-cost sessions, whether in-person or telehealth. It’s confidential.”
Jones says the national Farm Aid Farmer Hotline is 1-800-FARM-AID.
AUDIO: Kristi Jones – IDOA
Tags: 1-800-FARM-AID, 1-833-FARM-SOS, ag economy, Crops, Deputy Director Kristi Jones, Farm Aid, farmer mental health, farmer mental health resources, Illinois Department of Agriculture, Livestock, mental health, mental health resources, telehealth, therapy