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