Michigan Farm Bureau - Michigan's Voice of Agriculture
We apologize for the inconvenience while our website is down. Here is a link to your member benefit and discount information.
Log In or Join for a Personalized Experience
Welcome back
Member Since

  • Stress and Mental Health Resources

  • Farm Stress_MFB_2020

    Michigan Farm Bureau values each and every one of our members. You’re more than a membership, you’re a part of our farming family.

    These are uncertain times and farming has long been a passion of love albeit one of uncertain returns. Stress is part of this life that we love, but it doesn’t have to be a debilitating part. We’re here to help and the best way we know to do that regarding stress is by providing you with best resources and outlets.

    If you are struggling and simply need someone to talk with, contact the MFB Regional Manager in your area.  

    WARNING SIGNS OF STRESS

    If you’re here because you suspect someone you know is suffering from stress, here’s a list to help you identify the warning signs:

    • Change in routines: Farmers or members of the farm family may stop attending regular meetings or religious activities, drop out of other groups, or fail to stop at the local coffee shop or feed mill.
    • Decline in the care of domestic animals: Livestock or pets may not be cared for in the usual way.
    • Increase in illness: Farmers or farm family members may experience more upper respiratory illnesses (cold, flu) or other chronic conditions (aches, pains, persistent cough, migraines).
    • Increase in farm accidents: The risk of farm accidents increases with fatigue or loss of ability to concentrate. Children may be at risk if there isn’t alternative childcare.
    • Decline in appearance of farmstead: The farm family no longer takes pride in the way farm buildings and grounds appear.
    • Signs of stress in children: Farm children may act out, show a decline in academic performance, or be increasingly absent from school. They also may show signs of physical abuse or neglect or become depressed.
    • Decreased interest: Farmers or farm families may be less willing to commit to future activities, sign up for gatherings, or show interest in community events. 

    DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEED HELP?  

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Free and confidential support for people in distress, preventions and crisis resources for you and your loved ones. 

    • Call 1-800 273-TALK  (1-800-273-8255)
    • Use the Lifeline Chat
    • Text ANWER to 683-986 

    National Crisis Text Line: Crisis Text Line: is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to cool moment

    • Text HOME to 741-741

    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Hotline (SAMHSA): SAMHSA's National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. 

    • Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) 

    Farm State of Mind: Tips and resources for managing stress, anxiety or depression. Website/Social Media  

    MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES 

    AFBF Rural Resilience Training 

    Recognizing the high levels of stress affecting America’s farmers and ranchers, Farm Credit, American Farm Bureau Federation and National Farmers Union partnered on a program to train individuals who interact with farmers and ranchers, providing them with the skills to

    • Understand the source of stress,
    • Identify effective communication strategies, 
    • Reduce stigma related to mental health, and
    • Learn the warning signs of stress and suicide. 

    Any Farm Bureau member can register for this free online training here.

    If you are not a Farm Bureau member, you can register for the free online training here. 

    Michigan State University Extension 

    If you’re concerned about yourself, a family member, a friend or a neighbor, MSU Extension has a suite of resources and educators that can help identify and manage stress. Among other offerings, you can: 

    Learn More