Agriculture is a demanding industry that requires resilience in the face of unpredictable weather, financial pressures, and long hours. Unfortunately, these stressors often take a toll on our mental health — something that isn’t talked about enough in farming communities.  

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and I want the agricultural industry to encourage conversations around mental health. Farming is tough—but farmers shouldn’t have to be tough alone. Let’s support our farmers and encourage them to be proactive, not reactive to their mental health. 

Mental Health’s Connection to One Health  

The connection between mental health and the One Health approach is more important than many realize. Mental health is a vital part of human health and in animal agriculture it’s deeply influenced by both environmental and animal-related factors. This makes it a natural component of the One Health conversation, which recognizes that the health of people, animals and the environment are intertwined. To protect one, we need to take care of them all together.  

As our industry knows well, farming isn’t just a job — it’s a way of life. Farmers taking care of their mental health is just as important as taking care of their land. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, burnout, or depression — there’s no shame in needing support. We’re all human. 

Industry Collaboration and Resources 

Free mental health resources are available on the Pork Checkoff website and provide insight from experts like AgriSafe and the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).  

  • AFBF’s Farm State of Mind campaign: Campaign that provides crisis hotlines, treatment locators, tips for helping someone in emotional pain, ways to start a conversation and resources for managing stress, anxiety or depression  
  • AFBF Rural Resilience Training: Free training dedicated to helping individuals who interact with farmers and ranchers to understand sources of stress, identify effective communication strategies, reduce stigma related to mental health and learn the warning signs of stress and suicide 
  • AgriSafe’s Question, Persuade, Refer Training: 1.5 hour training tailored to the agricultural community that teaches how to recognize and respond to mental health crises 
  • 988, Lifeline: National suicide and crisis lifeline available 24/7 by call and text 

As strong, hardworking individuals, America’s farmers are facing more than most can imagine. In addition to the resources above, there are practical tips farmers can implement starting today: connecting with others, taking breaks from negative news or influences, prioritizing health and well-being, taking time to unwind and recognizing when more help is needed. 

Continue the Conversations 

Mental health is deeply embedded in the health of animals, people and our shared environments. A true One Health approach includes mental well-being for overall health and resilience. 

As someone passionate about agricultural safety and well-being, I believe we must normalize conversations around mental health in farming. Whether it’s providing better access to resources, fostering peer support, or simply checking in on a friend or colleague, small actions can make a big difference.  
 
Let’s continue working toward a future where farmers have the support they need—both physically and mentally.