Perhaps the most important thing a person can do for themselves is take care of their mental well being.  Whether it is with adults or children, maintaining a healthy mind is key to a fully healthy lifestyle. 

Mental health has always been a key part of the agriculture community but it wasn’t always talked about. Susan Springer, founder of Suicide Prevention Southwest Wisconsin provides insight into how mental health and agriculture come together and how to handle farm stressors such as farm succession.

“Many farmers never get away from the farms as it’s where they live,” says Springer. “They’re constantly on the farm and being exposed to stress or mental health triggers which can lead to depression or suicide.”

When Springer first started in 2014, it was more stigmatized to even talk about suicide. However, she says now people are reaching out more and utilizing the available resources. 

If you are looking for help there are resources available:

Farm Aid Helpline: 800 327 6243, Mon-Fri 9-5

WI Farm Center: 800 942 2474, Mon-Fri 7:45-4:30

National Suicide Hotline: 988, 24 hours a day

You can also go to https://www.suicide-swwi.org to find needed resources.