By Blake Jackson
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the University of Missouri Extension's Show-Me Strong Farm Families program is taking action. They provide free, confidential telehealth counseling to Missouri's agricultural community.
Telehealth counseling offers a convenient and secure solution for farmers and their families. Appointments can be conducted by phone or online, eliminating travel hassles and childcare concerns. This saves valuable time and money.
The program acknowledges the reality of farm stress and its potential impact on mental health. They highlight warning signs like changes in sleep, appetite, or mood, and physical symptoms like fatigue.
"Farm stress is real," says Karen Funkenbusch, program director. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and building coping skills through confidential counseling with professionals familiar with agriculture.
The Show-Me Strong Farm Families website offers additional resources, including videos and a Mental Health Awareness Toolkit. This toolkit fosters conversations about mental health within farming communities, aiming to reduce stigma and advocate for supportive policies.
"Prioritizing the mental well-being of Missouri's farmers is crucial for a sustainable agricultural future," says Funkenbusch. The program strives to bridge the gap in mental health services and support the farmers who are vital to our food supply.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: National