The stigma surrounding the topic of mental health and a scarcity of health care professionals pose challenges to mental health care in rural America, but the outlook is gradually improving.
Two farmers who have struggled with and overcome their own mental health issues urge other farmers and ranchers to talk about mental health and reach out to others in their community who may be struggling.
In an open letter to the ag community, Ohio farmer Nathan Brown urges farmers and ranchers to speak the truth about mental health and break the stigma.
Obstacles and solutions abound in rural youth mental health.
Though mental health services are fewer and far between in many rural areas, they can still be found with some extra effort and knowledge of how to navigate the system.
Training programs empower rural clergy and other community leaders to respond to mental health crises.
The simple act of reaching out to someone at risk of suicide can save their life. Training programs are available that can help people build the confidence to take that lifesaving step.
Addressing mental health challenges among rural veterans involves improving access to mental health services, raising awareness about resources, reducing stigma and providing targeted support.
The triple workload of home, farm and, often, off-farm employment, creates a unique set of stressors for farm women.
Spend time thinking ahead about worst-case scenarios and how to protect yourself from market fluctuations, not just financially, but also emotionally.
It’s estimated that one in 10 mothers suffer from postpartum depression, although there’s research suggesting it’s probably more common. Like many mental health conditions, it often goes undiagnosed and untreated.
Recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing and regulating our emotions can not only improve our mental health, but also our relationships, our physical health and our performance in our family businesses.
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— Editors’ Notebook: “Agriculture Burnout Is Real: Why We Need to Talk About Mental Health,” (8/14/2025)
— “Federal Bills Boost Mental Health Funds in Rural US Amid Rising Farm Stresses,” (7/15/2025)
— “Free Online Course Helps Veterinarians, Ag Workers Look for Signs of Mental Health Issues,” (9/29/2024)
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