Free Mental Health Help Available for Minnesota Farmers

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is offering farmers and livestock producers free, confidential tools to help with stress and mental health.

The Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline is open to anyone struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. Calls are answered 24/7 by trained counselors who can listen or connect callers with help for business, financial, or legal problems.

“From low commodity prices and extreme weather to continued threats like highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), Minnesota’s farmers and their families face a wide range of unique stressors that can have ripple effects in all areas of life,” said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. He encouraged farmers and their families to make use of the resources and reminded them they don’t have to navigate hardship on their own.

Anyone needing help can call 1-833-600-2670 or text FARMSTRESS to 898211 to get started.

Farmers facing a crisis caused by a natural disaster or financial problems can contact one of the MDA’s nine Farm Advocates. They are knowledgeable about agricultural lending practices, mediation, lender negotiation, farm programs, crisis counseling, and disaster programs and recognize the need for legal and/or social services.

The state also has two ag-focused mental health providers who offer confidential counseling at no cost to farmers or couples and families who farm. Sessions can take place in person, on Zoom, or over the phone, and insurance is not needed.

To learn more about all the available state resources, click here.

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