MU Extension highlights challenges farmers face during Mental Health Awareness Month

LEWIS COUNTY, Mo. — May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the University of Missouri Extension is emphasizing the importance of mental health in farming and rural communities. Brenda Schreck, a livestock field specialist with MU Extension and based in Lewis County, highlights the challenges faced by Missouri farmers, ranchers and their families.

“In 2022, Missouri farmers, ranchers, and their families faced tough challenges,” Schreck said in a press release. “Economic uncertainties, changes in commodity prices and ongoing weather issues add to the daily stresses of farming and ranching.”

She also notes that rural Missourians sometimes encounter barriers to receiving timely help due to the unavailability of psychological services in all rural counties.

MU Extension covers all 114 counties in Missouri, ensuring that resources and support are accessible throughout the state. Throughout May, MU Extension and its partners will join the national Mental Health Awareness campaign to provide resources tailored to farming and rural communities. These resources aim to support individuals where they live, work and play.

Each year, a team of MU Extension state and field specialists assembles the Mental Health Awareness Month Promotional Toolkit. “The toolkit provides resources and tools to promote and support the mental well-being of farmers, ranchers, and their families,” Schreck said.

“With increased pressures on today’s farmers, we want to let them know there are ways to fight stigma and provide a safe environment to address mental well-being concerns,” said Karen Funkenbusch, MU Extension health and safety specialist. “Together We Can” help our rural communities develop and maintain a support system for our farmers.”

For more information, visit the MU Extension website and search for Show-Me Strong Farm Families, or contact Funkenbusch at Funkenbusch@missouri.edu.