Suicide rates high among farmers, ranchers

Press release from WSDA issued 9. 13. 21

https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2021/09/suicide-rates-high-among-farmers.html

With the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, many people are struggling financially, mentally, and physically. Depression and other mental illnesses are of concern worldwide. On top of all the current event stressors, agriculture work is also a high-stress occupation.

When your livelihood is dependent on weather temperature, precipitation, feed prices, market demand for your product, and many other facets that effect the price of your product, it can be tough.

Farmers and ranchers have to almost predict the weather and the market, ward off pests, keep their workers safe, and still try to make a living, all while planning for contingencies. That’s likely why the suicide rate among ranchers and farmers are higher than the national average, according to the CDC.

Signs of suicide risk

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. September 5-11 was Suicide Prevention Week. During these observances, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness.

The Washington State Department of Health says there are a few signs that may indicate your loved one is having suicidal thoughts: if one starts talking or writing about suicide or death, feels hopeless, or like a burden, or begins giving away their prized possessions. There may also be cause for concern if your loved one is saying goodbyes, or stockpiling pills, isolating from others, acting recklessly, or a loss of interest in favorite activities.  Read about more signs of stress and warning signs your loved one may be at risk for suicide, and what you can do to help.

Grant

Given the seriousness of this issue, WSDA recently applied for and received a $500,000 grant to support the Farming Stress and Suicide Prevention Project. WSDA will administer the funds and work in partnership with the Washington State Department of Health and Washington State University Extension. The project’s intended purpose is to expand rural community-based education via trainings, resiliency workshops, and public awareness campaigns to combat the stigma around behavioral health, and connect specific stressors with behavioral health risks.

What can I do?

The National  Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention says there are several things you can do and say to be there for your loved one, friend, family, neighbor, even a client or an acquaintance you suspect might be struggling.

Checking in on a friend by phone or text message to see how they are doing can have significant impact to someone considering suicide. Inviting your friend to meet for coffee, or to share a meal, or sending a handwritten card are all ways to let someone know they are cared for, and bring them beyond their feeling of hopelessness. If your friend or loved one is struggling, share with them the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Number (800-273-8255), which provides 24/7, free, and confidential support. For specialized care, military veterans may press ‘1.’ In addition, anyone can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

Being involved is simple, a short call, text, or even a note can help refocus someone to what is good in their lives, help them realize they can get through their struggles.

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FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO DC

Cantwell Announces $1 Million Federal Grant to Spur Workforce Development in Thurston County.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, announced the Lacey Maker Space in Thurston County will receive a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). 

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(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), issued the following statement after Senate Democrats introduced the Freedom to Vote Act to protect access to the ballot box for Americans in the face of restrictive voting laws being passed by Republican state governments across the country.

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