Texas Farmers Find Mental Health Support on the AgriStress Helpline
In partnership with: Texas Department of Agriculture
Unpredictable weather, fluctuating commodity prices, high input costs, natural disasters and other variables make farming a very challenging career.
But for most farmers, it’s not just a job – it’s a calling, a home and part of their identity. That’s why farmers experience a deep emotional toll when facing industry hardships. In fact, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to commit suicide than the general population. This statistic highlights the urgent need for mental health resources tailored to the agriculture community.
The Texas AgriStress Helpline is available 24/7 and trained professionals are waiting to help. Simply call or text 833-897-2474 for free, confidential support during any mental health crisis.
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In 2021, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) introduced the AgriStress Helpline to support the mental health of farmers and ranchers across the state. Trish Rivera, a rural health specialist with TDA and coordinator of the Helpline, says it’s not a typical crisis call center.
“It is the only helpline answered immediately by someone well-versed in agricultural stressors,” Rivera says. “They understand what’s happening in agriculture.”
Helpline staff members are trained in crisis support and de-escalation, with additional specialized training focused on agricultural stressors. Before answering their first call, they are fully prepared to assist in crisis moments and quiet struggles. Farmers are beginning to embrace taking care of their mental health and shake off the stigma that it carried in previous generations. Just as farming equipment requires proper maintenance to run efficiently, farmers are realizing that the same applies to the operator. Investing in their mental health pays off.
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“Our goal is to raise awareness of the stressors of the job and have people become more comfortable with reaching out and understanding that there is help, and you don’t have to do it alone,” Rivera says.
If you or someone you love needs support, the AgriStress Helpline for Texas is available 24/7 by phone or text at 833-897-2474. Help is free, confidential and tailored to the needs of the agriculture community.