(KIMT) – Farmers are facing financial difficulties heading into the growing season as the prices of essentials like fuel, fertilizer and seed continue to rise. These stresses are adding up, causing a mental health crisis for many. Luckily, Minnesota has resources available for its farmers.
“Farming is more than just a business, it’s also a lifestyle.” said Emily Krekelberg, Farm Safety & Health Educator at University of Minnesota Extension. “For many of our farmers this is baked into who they are, and it can put pressure and challenges on their relationships. We see those business problems but also personal and relationship issues as well, which is very common to happen when we are under a lot of stress.”
Given the culture of self-reliance amongst rural communities, farmers are less likely to reach out for mental health support than those in urban communities. The Department of Agriculture wants them to know they aren’t alone. The Farm and Rural Helpline is available 24/7 and is completely confidential. They’re receiving hundreds of calls a month from farmers in financial and mental crises.
“In Minnesota, we have 3 mental health counselors. One is full time and two are part time.” said Meg Moynihan, Senior Advisor of Strategy & Innovation for the Department of Agriculture. “Their work is paid for by legislative appropriation. and they specialize in helping farmers. They know about farm issues, they have farm backgrounds, and they really get farming. They work with couples, they work with individuals, they work with whole families. Sometimes it’s a couple of visits, and sometimes the individual wants to meet for even longer.”
The University of Minnesota Extension is offering training for farmers and those who work with farmers on how to have intentional conversations with people they might be worried about, and how to address financial issues on farms. You can find out more here.
To reach the Minnesota Farm and Rural Hotline, dial 833-600-2670. Or, text “FARMSTRESS” to 898211.