According to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2019 Rural Stress Study, about 2 in 5 rural adults say stress and mental health have become more of a problem in their community in the past 5 years (41%) and in the past year (36%). The National Farm Medicine Center also reported in 2018 that 29% of farmers suffer from depression and 35% suffer from anxiety. These statistics are high compared to other occupations and continue to increase due to the current farm economy, unpredictable nature of farming, and even COVID-19. Farmers need mental health services now more than ever, but there are many barriers that prevent them from accessing care including affordability, accessibility, acceptability and awareness. This session will provide insight into farming culture and the unique stressors that affect farmers and farm families. It will include farmer testimonials and focus on the mental health barriers that farmers face, programs and services to address them, and how social workers can aid in the mission to break down barriers for farmers.
Learning Objectives of Webinar:- Provide insight into farming culture and the unique stressors that affect farmers and farm families
- Learn how social workers can aid in the mission to break down barriers for farmers
- Identify available resources to support farmers and their families
