January 14, 2020
"Farm Stress: You're Not Alone" Video Available For All to Use
In efforts to create a culture within the agriculture community across Kansas that is open to talking about the struggles with mental health, related to farm stress, Douglas County's Commission, in partnership with K-State Research and Extension - Douglas County, created the "Farm Stress: You're Not Alone" video that shares Kansas Farmers' stories about their struggle with mental health due to farm stress. Through this video, I hope that by allowing other agriculture producers to see their peers talk about stress, it helps to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Also located in the video are warning signs and statewide available resources, including local K-State Research and Extension offices.
We hope that other Extension offices across the state can utilize this video within their communities. For example, one way we will use this video in Douglas County is by showing it at different programs. This video was shown at our Calving Management School while we transitioned from dinner to the program. By having Extension staff show the video, it lets people know that KSRE is here for their community and its members' well being.
Lastly, I encourage every office to find their local resources and let community members know about them. If you struggle to find those resources, know that the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is always available for ANY mental health help, not just suicide. When a Kansas registered phone calls that number, they will be transferred to the Headquarters Counseling Center located in Lawrence, KS. As shown in the video, that center is directed by a farmer and is working on making sure lifeline volunteers are trained in making those personal connections with farmers.
If you have any questions about this effort or how it could be implemented in your communities, please never hesitate to contact Mallory Meek, mgmeek@ksu.edu, or 785-843-7058!