We know that farming is hard work. The environmental, financial, social, physical, and emotional pressures on farmers can be an intense burdens to bear - but that doesn’t mean that you have to bear them alone. The unique and nuanced stressors associated with farming, from unpredictable weather patterns to the effects of climate change, policies that hinder farm business success, and market volatility cement farming as a dangerous profession in regard to mental and psychological wellbeing, partially evidenced by higher rates of suicide among farmers than the national average.
​
In order to provide support for New Hampshire farmers and combat the stigma associated with mental health challenges, NOFA-NH has developed a Farmer Mental Health Campaign and a comprehensive list of resources for farmers in search of mental health services, as well as mental health resources for professionals who provide services and technical assistance to farmers.
​​
Crisis Support Help Lines
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, contact:
​
AgriStress Helpline: Crisis Support for Agricultural Communities ​
​The AgriStress Helpline is available 24/7. It provides mental health support through assessing immediate needs, for example, the potential for self-harm. The AgriStress Helpline is attended by professionals trained in the issues faced by farmers and farm workers face. Call or text 833-897-2474.​​
​
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national network that provides free and confidential support 24/7. Dial the three-digit code 988 to access the Helpline. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have hearing loss, there is a chat option on their website. Call, Text or Chat 988.
Get Help in NH:
​
Find a Therapist via Psychology Today
Psychology Today's directory lists clinical professionals, psychiatrists, and treatment centers providing mental health services. You can filter clinicians by insurance accepted, specialty, type of therapy, and more.
​
Find a Rehab Center, Counseling or Support Group via Start Your Recovery
StartYourRecovery.org encourages people to find the support they need, or to help their loved ones encourage and support help-seeking. This website is an easy way to learn about substance use and addiction and to determine your next step, whether it’s having a conversation, learning more, or seeking professional help.
​​​​​
Free Mental Health Resources for Farmers in NH:
-
​NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food Farmer Mental Health Support Program
-
Farmers’ Picnic Table at Vernon Family Farm
-
Free Yoga & Meditation at Evergreen Healing Arts (for farmers and food system workers)​​​
​
Yoga for Farmers:​
Farmer Mental Health Guides & Publications:
-
Managing Stress for Farmers and Farmer Families (Source: Michigan State University)
-
Farmer Stress & Emotional Well-Being Publications (Source: ATTRA)
-
Managing and Reducing Stress: The Path to Wellbeing (Source: ATTRA)
-
Preventing Farmer Suicide: Collaboration and Communication (Source: RHIhub)
-
Farm Stress and Emotional Wellbeing: Suicide (Source: ATTRA)
-
Mental Health and the Impact on Wellness for Farm Families (Source: AgriSafe Network) ​​​​
​​
This project was made possible by funding from UNH Extension.
Refer to our Resources page here.