The 21st Show

Mental Health Help For Farmers

 

Darrell Hoemann/The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting

Farming can be a stressful line of work. The economic pressures farmers face — coupled with the isolation and lack of mental health resources in rural areas — can make the job even more taxing. A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found farmers were among the most likely to die by suicide. And for some, the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic has compounded the problem.

The 21st speaks to experts on the topic and a reporter following the story. 

Guests:

Ted Matthews, Director of Minnesota Rural Mental Health

Greg Aubin, farmer in Manteno, IL 

Merissa Plescia, reporter for the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting

Click here to read Plescia's story: Farmers’ Struggles With Mental Health Increase Amid Pandemic

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255

Prepared for web by Zainab Qureshi

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