By Jamie Martin
The National Farmers Union (NFU) has officially endorsed the Farmers First Act, a bipartisan bill that seeks to enhance mental health support for the agricultural community.
The legislation focuses on reauthorizing and boosting funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN), which connects farmers, ranchers, and agriculture workers to crucial mental health resources.
“Farming can be incredibly stressful, and too many rural communities still don’t have the mental health support they need,” said Rob Larew, President of the NFU. “The Farmers First Act will help connect our farmers and ranchers with essential resources to address farm stress and improve well-being.”
FRSAN plays an essential role in supporting mental health by linking individuals in farming, ranching, and agriculture-adjacent jobs to counseling and support programs.
In many rural areas, these resources are often scarce, leaving workers with limited options to seek help. With the farmer suicide rate more than double the national average, there is an urgent need for solutions like FRSAN to bridge the gap in mental health care
Larew expressed gratitude to Senators Baldwin and Ernst, as well as Representatives Craig and Feenstra, for their leadership in advancing this important initiative. He called on Congress to act swiftly and pass the Farmers First Act, which will bring vital support to farmers facing significant mental health challenges.
This critical legislation will not only help address farm stress but also strengthen the mental well-being of farmers and ranchers across the nation, ensuring they have the support they need to overcome the pressures of the agricultural industry.
Photo Credit: national-farmers-union-foundation
Categories: National