Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) celebrated Senate passage of their resolution designating May 29th as “Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day.” According to the National Rural Health Association, the suicide rate among farmers is 3.5 times higher than that of the general population.
“Unprecedented challenges are taking a toll on the mental health of Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and farm workers — including severe drought and increased costs. I’m grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to raise awareness about mental health and to work to expand access to care for Americans in every community,” said Bennet.
“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,” said Fischer.
Bennet has advocated in Congress to increase awareness and support for mental health care among farming communities, including by introducing the Farmer’s First Act of 2023. This bipartisan bill would help connect farmers with valuable mental health resources and increase funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN).
“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,” said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer, National Rural Health Association.
This resolution is also supported by The National Rural Health Association, Nebraska Rural Health Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Farmers Union, and National Farmers Union.
The text of the resolution is available HERE.