At Farm Credit, we believe that when you feel better, you farm better. Mental health is a vital part of farm life, yet farmers and rural communities often face unique pressures that can take a serious toll. In fact, the suicide rate among farmers is three and a half times higher than that of the general population.
Recent years have brought added challenges for agricultural producers, intensifying financial, emotional, and physical stress. Recognizing that one size does not fit all, the Farm Credit Council supports a variety of initiatives designed to increase awareness of farm stress and connect rural residents with accessible, practical mental health resources.
Farm State of Mind Alliance
- Farm Credit is a proud partner in the Farm State of Mind Alliance, led by the American Farm Bureau Federation and supported by organizations across agriculture, working together to address farm stress and mental health.
- Togetherall: A free, anonymous, 24/7 online peer-to-peer support community where farmers and ranchers can connect, share, and find understanding. The platform includes an agriculture-specific group and is monitored by licensed mental health clinicians to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
- Personal Assistance Services (PAS): Free, confidential support offering self-help courses on topics such as anxiety, sleep, and depression, along with access to one-on-one coaching and counseling for personalized support.
Rural Resilience
- Developed by Farm Credit in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, Michigan State University Extension, and University of Illinois Extension, Rural Resilience is a free, private, online course that helps farmers, families, and rural neighbors understand sources of stress, recognize warning signs, and connect with helpful resources.
- Building on this effort, Farm Credit created a tailored version of Rural Resilience for loan officers and other frontline staff. Because these employees work closely with producers, the training equips them to recognize signs of stress, support customers through challenging situations, and manage their own well-being.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free, confidential emotional support for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health crises, or emotional distress. Available 24/7 nationwide by calling or texting 988, connecting callers with trained counselors through a network of local crisis centers.
