AgriSafe’s New Provider Directory Helps Rural Families Navigate Mental Health Issues During the Holidays

Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network Behavioral Health Coordinator, shares about AgriSafe Network’s resources created to support farmers and rural Americans.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — The holiday season can be a joyful time, but for many in rural America, it can also bring heightened stress and mental health challenges. To help farmers, ranchers, and their families access support, AgriSafe Network has launched a new resource designed specifically for rural communities.

Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network’s Behavioral Health Coordinator, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the new AgriStress Provider Directory and the mental health resources available to producers.

In her interview with RFD-TV News, Bury explained that farmers and ranchers often face unique stressors — from unpredictable markets and weather events to long hours and isolation — which can significantly impact mental health. The new provider directory aims to make it easier for rural residents to find professionals who understand these challenges and offer tailored support.

The directory lists trained mental health providers who have completed specialized programs to understand agricultural values, stressors, and lifestyle considerations. According to Bury, this training equips providers to connect with rural clients in a meaningful and culturally sensitive way.

For those in need of help, the directory is available online, making it easy for producers and family members to locate qualified mental health professionals in their area. AgriSafe also offers additional resources and guidance for agricultural communities seeking support throughout the year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: https://www.agrisafe.org/resource/the-agristress-provider-directory-press-release-2025/

Related Stories
Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
For producers, the cost of doing business is no longer determined solely by feed, fuel, and weather—it is increasingly a matter of navigating the differing legal philosophies of every state line they cross.
FFA Program Specialist Ashli Weinrich highlights how the FFA Next Gen Conference helps ag students explore career opportunities and build skills for the future.
Diversification is critical as conservation reshapes rural economies.
Kentucky Firefighters Jonathan and Lonny Epley and Extension Agent Leann Martin tell us about a new portable grain bin rescue tool, and its potential to enhance safety for farmers and first responders nationwide.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold provides insights on supporting aging populations in rural communities on this week’s Rural Health Matters segment.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Software developers at John Deere Digital are addressing challenges with their new Operations Center, which helps farmers make decisions on the fly.
“A government shutdown impacts all Americans and has serious consequences, including for farmers. It just adds additional uncertainty, disrupts critical services.”
Agricultural exports continue to be a key contributor to rural employment. However, rural businesses still struggle to fill numerous job openings.
On Champions of Rural America, Rep. Dusty Johnson underscores the Western Caucus’ ongoing commitment to advocating for farmers and rural communities.
Catch the special, “Praise and Worship: More Than a Hollow Hallelujah,” on The Gaither Gospel Hour, Friday at 8 PM ET only on RFD-TV!
Consumer demand for regional food systems is strong, but the challenge lies in scaling production and infrastructure to meet that growing need.