WSU Extension > Lincoln & Adams Counties > Agriculture > Farm Stress & Suicide Prevention

Farm Stress & Suicide Prevention

Agriculture Can Be Stressful You Are Not Alone

Agriculture is the backbone of our country and although it’s often rewarding it can also come with many stressors. Being a steward of the land, grappling with unpredictable weather and enduring financial hardships can lead to excessive stress. Due to the stresses faced in agricultural, farmers and many living in rural farm communities have higher rates of suicide. You don’t have to face these hardships alone or without help. If you know someone who is experiencing overwhelming stress or thoughts of self-harm please reach out to a confidential crisis support line.

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Agricultural communities including farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, and their families, continue to meet the demands and challenges this past year has brought. Many of us have experienced a crisis in the last year, or we are currently in a crisis. In times of crisis, stress can affect each member of the family differently.

Signs and Symptoms of Stress

Sign and symptoms to look for when stress has begun to take an effect on you or someone you know.

  • Thoughts of hurting oneself
  • Care of livestock declines
  • Increase in agriculture-related accidents
  • Appearance of farmstead declines
  • Children show signs of stress
  • Lack of energy/motivation to do usual tasks
  • Loss of interest in favorite activities
  • Alcohol and/or substance abuse/addiction
  • Withdrawal from others
  • Relational tension

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. If you are hard of hearing, you can chat with a Lifeline counselor 24/7. Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

Hard times can bring an inordinate amount of stress to you and your family. Farm Aid works with organizations around the country staffed with farm advocates, counselors and hotline operators that can help you in your time of greatest need. If you need someone to talk to, give us a call at 1-800-FARM-AID and we’ll do our best to direct you to someone who can help.