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You have probably heard the old saying “April showers bring May flowers” meaning that unpleasant, challenging times such as rain or hardships can lead to something beautiful and positive. As we say goodbye to April and hello to May, we welcome Mental Health Awareness Month as a time to recognize the unique mental health challenges facing rural communities. In rural America, where long, tiring days meet economic uncertainty, mental health can be deeply impacted and difficult to address. 

Meet Mattea Shockling, agricultural navigator serving Noble, Guernsey and Morgan counties.

Addressing a need 

The Muskingum Area Mental Health & Recovery Services Board recognized the agricultural community as an underserved population, taking seriously the statistic of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation that ‘Farmers in Ohio and across the U.S. face a high-stress crisis, with suicide rates approximately 3.5 times higher than the general population.’ The board addressed this need by advertising for an agricultural navigator. I answered the call without hesitation. My role is centered around connecting individuals and families in the agricultural community to resources, support and education that can help them navigate both personal and professional challenges.

Day in the life 

There is no “typical day” in the role of agricultural navigator, which is one of the things I love most. Some days I’m sitting down with a farmer over a cup of coffee, talking through stressors or connecting them to local services. Other days, I’m working with community partners like OSU Extension, Farm Bureau, and our local schools to bring educational programming and outreach into the community. 

Impactful programming  

Through programs like Brewing Connections and the Morgan County-based Back 40 Connections, I create informal, pressure-free spaces for farmers and community members to connect. Whether over coffee or in a support group setting, these initiatives focus on building relationships and ensuring no one has to navigate life’s challenges alone. I also lead the Beyond the Barn series, providing beginning and transitioning farmers with tools to navigate succession planning and record management which are both needed to sustain their family operations for the future.

My goal is simple: to strengthen the sustainability of our farms by also strengthening the people behind them. The agricultural community is built on resilience, but resilience doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Sometimes, it means knowing when to ask for support and, more importantly, knowing where to find it. 

Speaking of health, did you know that Ohio Farm Bureau is now offering health plans for individuals, self-employed workers, and farm families who need an alternative to expensive marketplace coverage? Click here to learn more. 

Upcoming Events/Deadlines 

Seeking applications for Ohio State Fair ImAGine Ag ambassadors 

Are you a high school or college student (age 18+) who loves the Ohio State Fair and wants to get paid to be there? Apply to be an ImAGine Ag ambassador and help us guide fairgoers through interactive exhibits connecting them to various aspects of agriculture. Compensation is $15 per hour, air-conditioned workspace, free fair admission and parking, daily “Taste of Ohio” meal voucher and exclusive staff gear. Must be able to commit to 12 shifts and one training day to be held July 23. For more information or to apply, visit ofbf.org/careers. Applications are due May 1. 

State YAP Committee applications open 

The State Young Agricultural Professionals Committee hosts the annual Winter Leadership Experience to promote professional development and personal growth. The committee consists of eight positions, and a position may be filled by either a single individual or a married couple. Members serve a two-year term with four returning and four new positions each year. For more information or to apply, visit ofb.ag/YAPComm. Applications are due May 1. 

ExploreAg Camps 

ExploreAg is back! Calling all high school students: dive into hands-on agriculture and STEM experiences free of charge. Multiple day camps and a weeklong camp are available! The full list of camp descriptions, applications and deadlines can be found at ofb.ag/exploreag.