The Senate unanimously approved U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Michael Bennet’s (D-Colo.), bipartisan resolution designating May 29 as “Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day.”
“From unpredictable weather to volatile markets and trade agreements, the livelihood of Nebraska’s agricultural producers and workforce depend on several factors beyond their control. This uncertainty, paired with extreme stress, leads to higher levels of anxiety and depression. Our resolution recognizes those unique challenges and supports the farmers, ranchers, and workers who perform the essential work of producing high quality food, fuel, and fiber,” Fischer said in a release.
Bennet pointed out that unprecedented challenges are taking a toll on the mental health of farmers, ranchers and farm workers. Raising awareness about mental health and continuing to work to expand access to care for Americans is critical.
“The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) appreciates Senator Fischer’s and Senator Bennet’s strong commitment to uplifting the mental health of agricultural workers. NRHA is proud to support the Senators’ resolution to designate May 29th as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day. We join the Senators in recognizing the importance of those working in the agriculture industry, improving their mental health, and reducing stigma around mental health,” Alan Morgan, chief executive officer of NRHA said.
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that we need to check in with ourselves and check up on each other, adds Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation.
“Farming and ranching is a stressful business that is full of uncertainty, which is why at AFBF we’re proud to offer resources through our Farm State of Mind campaign. I’m grateful for Senator Fischer’s leadership in working to designate a specific day during this month to bring focus to the unique challenges of the agricultural community. It’s important for all of us to remember that a healthy farm or ranch is nothing without a healthy farmer or rancher,” Duvall added.
The full text of the resolution can be found here.
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