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SIU-C's Farm Family Resource Initiative looking to help farmers who feel overwhelmed

Farm Family Resource Initiative press conference
Kevin Boucher
/
WSIU
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II, Center, flanked by state and SIU leaders talks about the Farm Family Resource Initiative, on Monday May 16, 2022 at the SIU-C Farms.

May is mental health awareness month, and as the planting season kicks into high gear, farmers who are feeling overwhelmed can get professional help, from their own home. SIU's Karen Stallman, the coordinator of the Farm Family Resource Initiative, says the goal of the program is to cut down on a startling statistic.

The suicide rate among farmers, producers is generally higher than that of the general population.
Karen Stallman

Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II, says the program features a toll free helpline , staffed 24 hours a day, that he urges farmers, and their families to use.

"So they'll pick up the phone and call this hotline. Or, shoot a text. I can't stress enough that this is anonymous."

The program also provides up to six free, telemedicine counseling sessions. For more information visit: https://www.siumed.edu/farm

Kevin Boucher is a retired broadcaster. Most recently he was a news reporter for WSIU radio. He grew up watching nature programs including Mutual of Omaha’s wild kingdom and the many Jacques Cousteau specials which sparked his passion with nature. Kevin also is an avid hiker and loves seeing and writing stories about the many fascinating plants and animals we share our planet with. Kevin is married and has lived in Murphysboro since 1976, after living in many places, including Japan, as the son of a Navy officer.


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