Running a farm, no matter the size, requires more work than many people realize. While it is important to maintain land, equipment, livestock and crops, there is one aspect of farming that is often overlooked. Mental health in the agricultural industry carries a stigma in which asking for help is viewed as weak. Although farms need to be preserved, so do people. This is the purpose of NY FarmNet.

I’m a multigenerational family dairy farmer, and a mental health advocate for the 46 million people who call rural America their home.  

I am deeply concerned by the actions taken by the current administration regarding the newly imposed tariffs that will damage an already fragile agricultural marketplace in this country.

Mental health is crucial in the agriculture community due to the unique challenges farmers, ranchers and other agricultural workers face. These individuals often endure high stress levels caused by unpredictable weather, fluctuating markets, long working hours, and isolation in rural areas. Such pressures can lead to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Ensuring proper mental health support for this community is vital for their personal well-being and sustaining agricultural productivity. Addressing mental health can improve decision-making, resilience, and overall quality of life in a sector that plays a foundational societal role.