SOUTHERN MARYLAND – To coincide with National Mental Health Awareness Month in May, the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, has renewed its dedicated mental health awareness initiative designed to support the well-being of the region’s agricultural community.
As the centerpiece of this effort, SMADC is distributing free equipment stickers featuring the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Designed for display in tractor cabs, farm offices, and barns, the stickers carry a simple but vital message: it’s okay to not be okay, and help is always available.
The initiative addresses the unique stressors of the agricultural industry, including long hours, weather extremes, financial volatility, and isolation. National data highlights the urgency of these efforts; recent reports indicate that nearly 67% of farmers and ranchers have experienced feelings of sadness or depression, with rural communities often facing significant barriers to care such as limited provider access and the social stigma surrounding mental health.
“Our farmers are the backbone of our community, but the heavy demands of this profession can take a significant toll on mental well-being,” said Shelby Watson-Hampton, SMADC Director. “By placing the 988 Lifeline directly into the workspaces of our producers, we want to normalize the conversation around mental health and ensure that a connection to support is always within sight and reach.”
The campaign aligns with broader national resources, such as the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Farm State of Mind initiative. Through partnerships like the Farm Family Wellness Alliance, producers can access free online training for stress management, telehealth options, and Togetherall, an anonymous peer-to-peer online community tailored for farmers and their families.
In addition to crisis resources, SMADC is emphasizing the role of preventative self-care—including proper nutrition, consistent sleep habits, and exercise—as essential tools for maintaining mental resilience.
Get Your Stickers Here
Residents and organizations in Southern Maryland are encouraged to request the free 988 stickers by contacting SMADC at info@smadc.com.
If you or someone you know is in distress, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential support 24/7. For specialized agricultural support, the AgriStress Helpline is available at 833-897-2474.
About SMADC
The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is committed to the viability of the local agricultural community by providing resources, marketing, and advocacy for farmers across the region.
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