ANKENY, IOWA (RFD NEWS) — May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and for many in agriculture, the stress can be constant. The Iowa Soybean Association is working to raise awareness and urges people to check in on the farmers in their lives.
Farmer and Behavioral Health Consultant Jason Haglund says removing the stigma is key: “The best thing we can do is just say something. Go up and ask someone how they’re doing because that’s the best way we can intervene and maybe help save a life.”
Haglund says farm stress can be especially difficult because it doesn’t stop. Many producers can’t step away from the work, making it harder to take breaks or reset.
According to Haglund, there are signs to watch for when someone may be struggling, including pulling back from activities they once enjoyed or relying more heavily on substances. Other warning signs can include feelings of hopelessness, being overwhelmed, or not keeping up with responsibilities like they normally would.
Resources are available through local extension offices, including Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by dialing 988.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
May 04, 2026 02:28 PM
·
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.
May 01, 2026 03:01 PM
·
Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss rural mental health awareness, the importance of reducing stigma in agriculture, and resources available to farmers, ranchers, and rural families seeking support.
May 01, 2026 02:43 PM
·
Meredith Petersen joined us to discuss the National Swine Health Strategy, how it was developed through industry collaboration, potential challenges ahead, and its expected benefits for pork producers.
April 27, 2026 03:05 PM
·
K-State researchers advise producers to take action, highlighting that prevention is essential for controlling tick populations as cases spread West.
April 27, 2026 02:48 PM
·
The Supreme Court’s ruling could affect pesticide warning claims well beyond Roundup. Richard Gupton with the Ag Retailers Association joins us to explain the importance of federal pesticide labeling standards and discuss the potential impact on the ag industry and supply chain.
April 25, 2026 07:00 PM
·