Federal Aid Reopens Counseling for Farm Workers

By Andi Anderson

Counseling services for Michigan’s agricultural community have resumed following the return of federal funding, restoring a vital support system for farmers and agricultural workers across the state. Michigan State University Extension’s Managing Farm Stress program has secured funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, allowing free and confidential counseling to once again be offered.

The program serves individuals working in farming, forestry, and fisheries, many of whom face high levels of stress due to economic uncertainty, unpredictable weather, long work hours, and family responsibilities tied to multigenerational land ownership. These pressures place agricultural workers among the occupations with the highest mental health risks in Michigan.

The restoration of services follows a temporary suspension that began last summer when state funding was not renewed and a federal grant expired. During that period, counseling services were unavailable at no cost, forcing many individuals to consider paying out of pocket. With counseling sessions often costing around 150 dollars per visit, access was limited for many farm families already managing rising operational expenses.

Before the funding lapse, the Managing Farm Stress program delivered more than 550 counseling sessions and reached thousands of people through educational outreach efforts. The program connects individuals with mental health professionals who understand agricultural life and the unique challenges of rural work, including isolation, financial strain, and difficulty balancing work and personal responsibilities.

Program leaders emphasize that removing financial barriers plays a critical role in encouraging participation and reducing stigma. When services were free, more individuals sought help early rather than waiting until stress became overwhelming. During the funding gap, many discontinued or avoided care altogether.

With federal funding now restored for a limited period, eligible individuals can again receive counseling at no cost. Services are designed to be flexible, including online options, and are confidential to respect privacy concerns common in rural communities.

While the funding stabilizes access in the short term, long-term sustainability remains a concern. Program leaders continue exploring additional funding sources to ensure counseling services remain available.

For Michigan’s agricultural sector, which employs tens of thousands and contributes billions to the state economy, the return of counseling services reinforces both personal well-being and the resilience of family farming operations. Individuals seeking assistance can contact Michigan State University Extension for information, referrals, or guidance on recognizing signs of mental health distress and accessing crisis resources.

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