News

Bill to address farmer mental health

 

A new bipartisan bill has been introduced in the U.S. House to address farmer mental health.

National Young Farmers Coalition National Policy Director Andrew Bahrenburg tells Brownfield the STRESS Act would coordinate a national stress assistance program for farmers and ranchers.  “Farmer suicides are much higher than any other profession, higher event than veterans.  We also know that rural areas have a significant shortage of mental health and just general health service providers.”

He says mental stress is an issue that affects farmers of all ages especially in a difficult ag economy.  “I think especially an issue like mental health and stress and anxiety is something that is difficult to talk about, and that’s why it’s so important that we have resources on the ground.”

The Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network was authorized by Congress in 2008 but has never received funding. The legislation is also supported by the National Farmers Union.

The bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Tom Emmer and Rick Nolan of Minnesota, David Young of Iowa, Mark Pocan of Wisconsin and Rodney Davis of Illinois, among others.

AUDIO: Interview with Andrew Bahrenburg