Rural Health

Farming is a stressful occupation that is associated with increased levels of anxiety and depression. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and to help promote awareness on this important topic, county Farm Bureau’s will have access to a toolkit provided by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). These materials focus on AFBF’s Farm State of Mind and Togetherall programs. Farm State of Mind is a campaign that builds awareness to reduce stigma and provide access to information and resources that promote farmer and rancher mental health awareness. Togetherall is a safe, anonymous online peer-to-peer community that is accessible 24/7 and moderated around the clock by licensed mental health professionals.

According to AFBF’s Farm State of Mind website, multiple studies show that farmer suicide rates are 2-5x higher than the national average. Experiences such as natural disasters, extreme weather events, financial uncertainty, fluctuating markets, labor shortages, trade disruptions and other factors all contribute to extreme stress for farmers and ranchers who often live in a very isolated setting. It is important to break the stigma around mental health challenges and encourage those struggling to reach out for help.

To build a sustainable future for agriculture for our nation and our world, we must promote the wellbeing of our nation’s farmers and ranchers. We are asking county Farm Bureau’s to help in promoting Mental Health Awareness Month. Use the links below to access this year's toolkit.

For more information or questions, please contact Jennifer Craig at Jennifer.craig@arfb.com or 501-228-1269.

Just One Step

This year Farm Bureau is encouraging farmers and ranchers to take "just one step" toward supporting their own mental health or someone who is struggling. Just one step is all it takes to start improving your mental health or helping others. Having a conversation, going for a walk, making that phone call, asking for help... just one step changes everything. So, on days where everything is overwhelming, what does "just one step" look like to you? Maybe it's journaling, or creating a Togetherall account, simply pausing at sunset to clear your mind, or opening up to a friend. It's important not to suffer in silence. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can lift them up with just one step. So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step today.

Just One Step Social Graphics

View the 2025 Mental Health Month Toolkit