DENVER, Colo. (RFD-TV) — A new survey from the National Corn Growers Association (NGCA) shows 65 percent of farmers are more concerned about their finances than they were a year ago. From rising input costs to weaker commodity prices, the pressures of this harvest season are mounting—and experts warn that the stress can take a toll on mental health.
Chad Rezniek with the Colorado AgrAbility Project joined us as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week to discuss the growing need for behavioral health support in rural communities.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Rezniek addressed the ongoing mental health crisis in farm country, where suicide rates remain higher than in urban areas. He outlined the mission of the Colorado AgrAbility Project, which supports farmers and ranchers facing both physical and mental health challenges, and explained how their team works to remove barriers to care.
Rezniek also shared details about the COMET method, an outreach approach designed to help rural neighbors recognize signs of distress and guide those in need toward help. He closed with a message of encouragement for farmers and ranchers who may be struggling or supporting someone who is.
———
If you or a loved one is suffering from mental health issues related to farm stress, you are not alone.
To learn more about the Colorado AgraAbility Project and access mental health resources, visit their website or contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by call or text at #988 for immediate assistance.
Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
January 27, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening joined us with the latest update on storm conditions and impacts across the state.
January 26, 2026 04:30 PM
·
Mike Knotts with the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association joined us with the latest on storm impacts, power restoration, and safety considerations following the ice storm.
January 26, 2026 04:00 PM
·
Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.
January 26, 2026 03:30 PM
·
Payment totals alone do not show financial stress — production costs and net losses complete the picture.
January 26, 2026 02:30 PM
·
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
January 26, 2026 09:41 AM
·
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
January 23, 2026 02:00 PM
·
Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
January 23, 2026 01:54 PM
·