Expert: How to Help a Farmer Struggling With Stress

UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.

ROCHESTER, Minn. (RFD-TV) — While harvest might be behind us, several stressors still weigh on farmers today, from finances to trade tensions. Emily Krekelberg with the University of Minnesota Extension joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about some of the significant signs of mental health distress and health resources rural Americans should keep in mind.

In her interview with RFD-TV News, Krekelberg addressed the primary stressors that farmers face today and shared insights from the agricultural community regarding mental health. She also highlighted the signs of distress that farmers and producers should be vigilant about in themselves and others, as well as the best ways to approach someone who may be struggling but is having difficulty discussing their problems. Finally, she provided information on several available resources and training programs for rural communities.

Related Stories
Kentucky Farm Bureau President Eddie Melton joins us to discuss fertilizer affordability concerns, Senate Agriculture Committee testimony, and spring planting conditions in Kentucky.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition joins us to discuss the proposed federal gas tax suspension, fuel cost pressures, and what the policy could mean for agriculture and transportation.
For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical, and support operations.
Kansas row crop farmer Brad Keeler joins us to discuss drought conditions, planting decisions, input costs, and overall farmer sentiment in his region.
AFBF Economist Danny Munch joined us to discuss snowpack levels in the Colorado River Basin, water supply concerns, and the potential impact on agricultural production.
Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama joined us to discuss federal overreach, transparency efforts, and legislative solutions impacting agriculture on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
Donald Chase of Chase Farms joined us to discuss drought conditions, planting progress, input costs, and the outlook for Georgia agriculture.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins hints at new fertilizer plan while trade deals, soybean markets, and farm bill momentum drive ag policy discussion.