Missouri farmers can now easily access mental health resources. The 24-hour AgriStress Helpline was introduced earlier this month by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
One study found a 78 percent increase in rural Missourians’ suicide rates between 2003 and 2017.
The hotline can be helpful, according to representatives of Mark Twain Behavioral Health, because accessing assistance in remote locations can be difficult.
They claimed that since COVID-19, they have noticed a rise in the number of people asking for assistance, and this tendency has continued to expand, with 97 people doing so since the start of August.
According to marketing director Rhonda Byers, rural areas frequently face economic difficulties. “Transportation issues can arise.”
According to Byers, farmers may have to travel up to an hour to obtain assistance, and given the high cost of gas, some may not feel comfortable traveling that far.
She claimed that if necessary, telehealth options might be investigated and that the assistance line might point them toward nearby services and resources.
People with agricultural backgrounds work on the line. A similar hotline exists in Illinois, and farmers have started using it.
According to Shawn Vaulter, manager of the Adams County Farm Bureau, “there is a lot of concern in the agricultural industry right now due to high inflation and high input prices.” Therefore, it’s critical that someone empathizes with them.
Callers and texters in need can reach the hotline at 833-897-2472.
If you are a farmer, there are many resources available to help you with the stresses that come with farming. Click below to find out more!
“a pretty morning farm” by scott1346 is licensed under CC BY 2.0 
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