By Andi Anderson
Fall harvest season is one of the most demanding times for Michigan farmers. Long hours, unpredictable weather, and financial uncertainty often create mental and emotional strain.
To help address these challenges, the Michigan State University Extension Farm Stress Program is providing farmers, families, and agricultural professionals with resources, training, and practical support to manage stress and build resilience.
“Farmers face unique challenges that can weigh heavily on mental health.” said Remington Rice, director of the MSU Extension Farm Stress Program. “Our goal is to make sure they have the tools and support they need to cope and keep going.”
The program began in 2016 after concerns about rising stress and suicide rates among Michigan farmers. MSU Extension first launched “Communicating with Farmers Under Stress” to train agricultural professionals, followed by “Weathering the Storm” in 2018 to support farmers directly.
The initiative continues to grow as the agricultural community faces increasing challenges, including market volatility, rising costs, extreme weather, and rural isolation.
Through in-person workshops, online courses, and educational materials, the program teaches participants how to recognize signs of stress and respond with compassion and practical support. It connects farmers to local counseling, crisis services, and peer networks.
Key resources include:
- Communicating with Farmers: A training that helps professionals identify and support farmers in distress.
- Weathering the Storm: A course designed for farmers to develop coping skills and stress management tools.
- Rural Resilience: An online program offering printable materials and self-paced learning.
Farmers are also encouraged to take small steps to manage stress—such as reaching out to friends, sharing workloads, exercising daily, and seeking financial advice early when challenges arise.
Warning signs of distress may include major changes in routine, irritability, neglect of work, or talk of hopelessness.
If someone is in crisis, call or text 988 for immediate help. For more information, training, or local referrals, contact your county MSU Extension office.
The MSU Extension Farm Stress Program continues to remind farmers that taking care of mental health is just as important as caring for the land.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle