Affordability and accessibility are the top barriers for farmers seeking mental health services, per an American Farm Bureau Federation survey. There are free confidential resources available for farmers and farm families.
Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Brent Johnson explains the confidentiality of Personal Assistance Services, “We really don’t track anything. So there is no good way for us to know how many, or what is being talked about. I mean all of this, all of these conversations are confidential. Whether they are one-on-one with a real person or just reading articles, there’s really not a good metric there and that’s not really the design. It is just there to be helpful for folks when that service is needed.”
Services are facilitated by rural mental health clinicians, many of whom have a farming background or understand the unique challenges farming communities face. They offer tailored support for stress, anxiety, sleep issues, substance abuse and more. Additionally, Iowa Farm Bureau has compiled a comprehensive list of mental health services, Iowa-based resources and suicide prevention hotlines that assist all Iowans in their pursuit of wellness.
According to the American Farm Bureau, multiple studies have shown that farmer rates of suicide can be two- to five-times higher than the national average with increased levels of anxiety and depression. Factors such as financial uncertainty, extreme weather events, fluctuating markets, and natural disasters can contribute to added stress for farmers.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day by dialing 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org with online chat services available.
https://www.iowafarmbureau.com/Stress-Mental-Health-Resources/Personal-Assistance-Services-PAS