Illinois Extension Provides Programs to Help Area Farmers
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that male farmers and ranchers have a suicide rate of 52.1 per 100,000, compared to 32 per 100,000 for male working-age adults across all other careers. To help area farmers – and their families – navigate mental health challenges associated with farming, the University of Illinois Macomb Extension Office will offer three Mental Health First Aid courses next month designed specifically for the agricultural community.
According to Tessa Hobbs-Curley of the Extension Office, farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers face unique challenges that can impact mental health and well-being. Long hours, economic uncertainty, weather-related issues and the demands caring for crops, livestock and family can make it difficult to recognize when someone needs support.
The Mental Health First Aid for Agriculture course is a free one-day training designed to help those in the agricultural communities – and their friends and family members - recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges and respond with confidence and compassion.
"Whether you're involved in production agriculture, agribusiness, agricultural services or simply care about supporting the agricultural community, this workshop provides practical skills that can make a difference," Hobbs-Curley explained.
Advance registration is required as space is limited. The first class will be held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 12 at the 4-H Center in Macomb (deadline to register: Oct. 27); 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 13 at the Rushville Community Center (deadline to register: Oct. 28); and 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 19 at the Galesburg Public Library (deadline to register: Nov. 3).
Participants will learn:
• How to identify signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use.
• How to recognize when someone may be experiencing distress or a crisis.
• Practical steps to support someone and connect them with appropriate help.
• Strategies for reducing stigma and encouraging open, supportive conversations.
• Local and national resources available to individuals and families.
Hobbs-Curley added the interactive training equips participants with a proven action plan to approach, assist, and support someone who may be struggling.
"By increasing awareness and building confidence, participants can help create stronger, healthier, and more connected agricultural communities," she said.
Prior to the instructor-led training, attendees will complete a two-hour, self-paced online course.
For more information about health and wellness programs and to register, visit go.illinois.edu/HKMW or contact the McDonough County Extension office at (309) 837-3939.
The program is affiliated with The North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center, a 12-state, 15-partner collaborative created to develop and expand stress management and mental health resources and services for agricultural producers and stakeholders in the North Central region.
The North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center is funded by USDA NIFA.
