Farmer suicide rates far exceed national average

The American Farm Bureau Federation reports farmer suicide rates are 2 to 5 times higher than the national average of 13.7 per 100,000 people.

30 years farming takes emotional toll

Jesse Arth of Milnor has farmed for three decades following his father. Dry, hot summers like this one cause extra anxiety because he puts part of himself into the work.

“When it gets dry and the crop starts to fail, it really wears on you.”

International trade affects crop stress

Farming pressure extends beyond weather and machinery to include international relations that drive fuel prices, leaving farmers with little control over their outcomes.

“There's nothing we can do about any of it.”

Mental health needs more than hard work

Sanford Health therapist Angela Blackford says farmer stress can't be solved by working longer hours. Long hours and family farm isolation create mental health challenges tied to family legacy and pride.

“It's significant, the long hours can lead to isolation if it's a multi-generational like family farm or family ranch.”

Small moments help during tough times

Blackford recommends farmers find small things to look forward to during stress, like sitting down to dinner with family or spending time with friends, especially during off-season.

“Even if it's something small. It can be sitting down to dinner with your family.”

Farmers weather the storm together

Despite stress, farmers remain committed to their land and continue operating through difficult years. A suicide-prevention workshop for agriculture workers runs October 1st at Fergus Falls Public Library.

“When the times get tough, fold the hatches in and buckle everything down and weather the storm.”