Farm Stress and Rural Mental Health
Many farm families grapple with farm stress and mental health but tend to suffer silently. In fact, approximately one in four farmers struggle with mental health issues. NCGA encourages corn growers, their families, and industry partners to look for signs. Saying something could mean everything.
NCGA recognizes the increasing need to keep mental health at the forefront of farm discussions and is committed to supporting fellow corn growers and their families as they invest in mental health awareness. NCGA’s Member and Consumer Engagement Action Team strives to raise awareness of farm stress, working with grower leaders, state associations, and partners to amplify stories and resources that help farmers and their families navigate mental health.
This page is a dedicated space for resources, research, and stories to help farmers and rural Americans plug into the mental health space.
- The suicide rate is higher in the agricultural industry than in any other profession.
- Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that farmers are twice as likely to die by suicide than other occupations.
- The male suicide rate for farmers is 43% compared to 27% across all other occupations.
- A study in the Upper Midwest Agriculture Safety Center found that 90% of women in agriculture felt their job was a stressor in their lives.
- Women were found to have higher suicide rates in medium-sized towns than in more rural areas.
- In a 5-year study of farm families, 60% of parents experienced anxiety and the rate was similar in their children.
- Farmers over the age of 65 account for almost 45% of suicides in the industry (compared to all non-farmers over the age of 65 at 17%).
- Farm Aid Hotline: 1-800-FARM-AID
- Farm Aid team members are available Monday through Friday, 9 am – 10 pm EST / 6 am – 7 pm PST through this line.
- Farmer Resource Network by Farm Aid
- This page serves as a resource hub for mental health and farm stress management.
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- This line provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress and in search of preventive resources and best practices.
- Crisis Text Line: Text “CONNECT” to 741741
- This line is open to respond to crisis at any time.
- Looking for local support?
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline [1-800-662-HELP (4357)] is an informational line that provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
- National Rural Health Association
- NRHA’s mission is to provide leadership on rural health issues through advocacy, communications, education and research.
- USDA’s Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN)
- The purpose of the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) Program is to establish a network that connects individuals who are engaged in farming, ranching, and other agriculture-related occupations to stress assistance programs. The network is currently divided into four geographical regions: