Advocates Encourage Open Conversations Around Farm Mental Health

Mental Health Nurse Kathleen Jemmett says people should not be afraid to reach out for help.

POCATELLO, Idaho (RFD News) — May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and advocates say it is important to remember the unique pressures many farm families continue facing.

Kathleen Jemmett, a mental health nurse who works with both adults and adolescents, says people should not be afraid to reach out for help when they need it.

Jemmett also shared her perspective as a mother who has dealt with mental health struggles within her own family, encouraging others to continue having open conversations.

While May brings additional attention to mental health awareness, advocates say these are conversations that matter year-round.

RFD-TV will air a special next Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Eastern titled ProtectHER: The Weight We Carry, hosted by Kirbe Schnoor.

The program will feature conversations with industry leaders working to improve and protect mental health in farming communities.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

University of Arkansas researchers are working to help farmers reduce grain waste and get more value out of their crops.
Louisiana soybean farmers are moving quickly to get this year’s crop planted during a key window for yield potential.
Growers say flavor remains strong despite smaller size of onions.
Vermicompost business helps boost soil health from the ground up.
California almond acreage tightens while pistachios shift into an off-year, shaping a mixed outlook for prices and supply in the tree nut market.
New treatments offer hope, but challenges remain for beekeepers.