New mental health program focuses on Utah farmers

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food has launched a program focusing on mental health among farmers.

Statistics show farmers and ranchers are nearly two times more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population.

To provide that population with increased access to mental health services, the UDAF has announced its Ag Stress Assistance Program.

The program is in partnership with Utah State University, Extension Ag Wellness, and will focus on three primary elements:

• free mental healthcare through reimbursement,
• state-wide mental health workshops to educate farmers on warning signs and how to help others in need, and
• rural-specific training for 988 suicide and crisis lifeline operators. 

According to UDAF, virtual treatment options are available through Intermountain Healthcare Connect Care.

The program covers mental health care for: anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, depression, grief, insomnia, mood swings, panic attacks, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), relationship problems, stress, substance misuse/abuse, and trauma.

For additional information go to ag.utah.gov/asap/.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (1-801-583-2500).

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