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On the morning of Sept. 6, 2023 the Highland County Fairgrounds was the setting for the 3rd annual Harvesting Healthy Minds. During this event, attendees are invited in for fellowship, breakfast, and a short program focused on health and wellness in agriculture.

Dr. Michael Rosman led the conversation this year with an emphasis on understanding where we were, where we are now and where we need to go as we evaluate the vital intersection of agriculture and mental health. On the American Farm Bureau’s Farm State of Mind initiative website, it states, “Farmers and people in rural areas are more comfortable talking about stress and mental health challenges with others, and stigma around seeking help or treatment has decreased in rural and farm communities, but it is still a factor.” Thus, we still have work to do!

The Harvesting Health Minds event aims to support local mental health programs for farmers and their families, right here in our own agricultural community.  Following Dr. Rosman’s discussion, Ohio Farm Bureau Senior Director of Communications and Media Relations Ty Higgins moderated a Q&A alongside Nathan Brown. Nathan Brown, from Highland County, is a strong advocate for mental health in agriculture and currently serves on the Ohio Farm Bureau State Board of Trustees, representing Adams, Brown Clermont and Highland counties.  

This collaborative event was made possible by partnerships with the Highland County Community Action,  Hope House Christian Counseling Center, Ohio Department of Mental Health, OSU Extension, Highland County District Hospital, Highland County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Highland County Health Department, Highland County SWCD, Hillsboro FFA students, and several more local partners. Highland County Farm Bureau is honored to play a role in this event!