Article

For many in rural communities, the holiday season can be tough. There may be a new empty chair at the dinner table, reminders of how hard the past year has been on the farm, or a heaviness that often comes with the cold, dark winter months.

Winter can be isolating, which is why this season is a good time to pause and check in – with yourself, a loved one or a neighbor. One small action in our mental health wellness can open doors to understanding, relief and the realization that no one has to carry these challenges alone.

Across farm country, there unfortunately remains a stigma around mental health. It can feel like something that shouldn’t be discussed at family gatherings or mentioned in conversation with a neighbor down the road. There is no doubt that farmers and rural community members are resilient, but there is often a fear that asking for help or letting others into what’s going on in our minds can be seen as a weakness. In reality, stress, grief and uncertainty are part of life, especially in agriculture, and acknowledging those challenges doesn’t diminish our strength, it reflects it.

The first step toward mental health wellness may feel uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be big or complicated. A short conversation over the phone, a quick text message or even finding a small daily habit such as journaling can make a big difference. What matters most when it comes to wellness is finding what works for you and inviting others to do the same.

Farm State of Mind resources

Through American Farm Bureau’s Farm State of Mind campaign and the Farm State of Mind Alliance, a catalog of free tools and resources is available to help you on the journey of mental health wellness in every season.

The FSOM page offers tips for supporting loved ones, a nationwide directory of support services, and access to Togetherall, an online peer-to-peer community moderated by licensed mental health professionals, as well as access to Personal Assistance Services, which provides confidential counseling, financial consultations, and additional stress management resources.

Togetherall services are free to farm families and even offers an anonymous, agricultural-specific group to share similar stories.

If you are unsure where to begin when it comes to mental health wellness, Farm State of Mind is a safe place to start and can meet you wherever you are.