May is Mental Health Awareness Month

MADISON, Wis. — May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau and National Farm Medicine Center want rural residents to know that #FarmNeighborsCare.

Farmers may have extra stress during planting season. In addition to economic challenges and unpredictable weather conditions, farming can be an isolating career.

It is important to check in on your friends, neighbors and family members to gauge how they are doing. You can offer support and encouragement to your rural neighbors.

“Farm Medicine is committed to giving farmers the resources and opportunities they need to reach out if they are struggling, or to help family and friends in need of mental health support,” said Dr. Casper Bendixsen, director of the National Farm Medicine Center.

“Farming is as much about physical wellness as it is about mental and emotional wellness.”

Indiana has resources for anyone who needs support. Visit www.bewellindiana.com for information.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish languages at 800-273-8255.

Learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month at www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month.

5 Minute Stress Relief Ideas

• Take time to notice something beautiful.

• Listen to a favorite song.

• Call a loved one.

• Make a list of five things you’re grateful for.

• Meditate or practice guided breathing exercises.

Did You Know?

• Studies over the past few decades have consistently found farmers and farmworkers at a higher risk of death by suicide compared to other occupational groups.

• 91% of rural adults say mental health is important to them and their family.

• 31% of rural adults have personally sought help for a mental health condition, and 24% have a family member who has sought care for a mental health condition.