By Scout Nelson
As North Dakota farmers gear up for spring planting, there's a growing focus on their mental well-being. Becky Kopp Dunham, a clinical social worker at Together Counseling, is at the forefront of these efforts. Her organization runs a program catering to farmers in eastern North Dakota, addressing the stigma around mental health in the agricultural community.
Dunham notes the broader impact of farmers' challenges on their families and employees, emphasizing a community-wide effect. Since 2021, nearly 90 farmers, ranchers, and their families have benefited from their program, initially supported by a grant from North Dakota State University. With the funding now depleted, there are concerns about maintaining affordable access to these services.
Farmers face unique stressors, including high health insurance costs due to self-employment, concerns over equipment parts and costs, lack of succession planning, and the increasing unpredictability of weather due to climate change. These factors contribute to a heightened need for mental health support.
Dunham's team, based in Fargo, offers telehealth services to accommodate farmers across the region. The North Dakota Department of Agriculture provides a list of mental health resources on its website, ensuring that farmers have access to necessary support during these challenging times.
Photo Credit - gettyimages-livingimages
Categories: North Dakota, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety