Rural Mental Health Services Grow Through USDA Program

Agricultural producers and farm workers often face stressful working conditions that contribute to higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to the general population. However, rural areas where many of these individuals live frequently lack adequate access to mental health care. In response to this growing concern, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture funded four regional farm and ranch stress assistance networks in 2019, one of which is the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center (NCFRSAC).

Operating in 12 states across the Midwest, NCFRSAC offers mental health assistance to agricultural producers, workers, and families. The center collaborates with approximately 15 organizations, including Extension services, public health departments, and nonprofits. It focuses on five key areas: training programs, professional behavioral health services, a resource website, outreach to producers, and support groups.

The region served by NCFRSAC includes states such as Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, which are among the most agriculturally productive in the U.S. This area is home to nearly 40% of all U.S. agricultural producers and employs over 300,000 farmworkers. The center's services are designed to alleviate the significant stress caused by economic pressures, financial instability, environmental factors, and personal challenges.

One of the center’s key services is a telephone helpline, which provides assistance in both English and Spanish. The hotline handles stress and crisis calls and addresses legal and financial concerns, directing callers to appropriate resources. Over the past three years, the hotline has facilitated more than 20,000 calls.

NCFRSAC also operates a comprehensive website (farmstress.org) with over 170 resources on mental health topics, ranging from depression and anxiety to substance abuse and suicide prevention. These resources are tailored for various audiences, such as women farmers and youth, and cover topics specific to the farming community.

In addition to these services, the center focuses on training individuals who regularly interact with farmers, such as those in retail and banking, to recognize and address mental health concerns. The goal is to build mental health literacy so that non-professionals can engage in meaningful conversations, offer support, and refer those in need to mental health services.

The network has made significant strides in outreach and education. Over the last three years, more than 11,000 agricultural supporters have been trained in mental health programming, while over 18,000 producers have received training in stress management and mental health awareness. Additionally, the center has engaged more than 850 farmworkers in support groups and provided over 1,200 hours of professional behavioral health services.

Some states in the network offer specialized programs. For instance, Illinois provides a voucher program for free mental health sessions, and Nebraska runs social support groups aimed at reducing substance use and promoting healthier coping strategies among farm workers.

A major challenge in delivering mental health support to agricultural communities is overcoming stigma and building trust. To address this, NCFRSAC has partnered with trusted organizations, such as Extension services, to disseminate resources and build rapport with farming communities. The center aims to normalize seeking help, emphasizing that reaching out is a sign of strength.

Moving forward, the NCFRSAC plans to adapt its services to meet the changing needs of the agricultural sector. By continuing to expand resources and modify its approach, the network aims to remain a vital support system for the mental well-being of agricultural producers, workers, and their families.