The latest episode of Rooted Wisdom features a discussion on agricultural mental health initiatives with Josie Rudolphi, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at the University of Illinois, and Kaycee Captain, a Tribal outreach and policy specialist at the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI). They discuss the collaboration between IFAI and the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center (NCFRSAC). 

Kaycee Captain, a citizen of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, underscores the critical importance of mental health support for farmers, particularly within Tribal communities.  “Farming is deeply tied to family, tradition, and identity,” Captain said.  Maintaining a successful operation while navigating modern challenges creates immense emotional strain for many producers. For some, the thought of losing the farm or ranch carries feelings of guilt and personal failure. Agriculture producers play a vital role in feeding the world, and when they’re struggling with mental health, it can impact their families, employees, and the wider community. Prioritizing mental health ensures a healthier, more sustainable farming community. 

Rudolphi elaborates on how IFAI became a grantee of NCFRSAC through funding available in a USDA Farm and Stress Assistance Network grant. This partnership aims to provide mental health resources to producers across 12 states, with a special focus on Tribal agriculture. Rudolphi highlights the initiatives under NCFRSAC, including helplines, training programs, support groups, professional behavioral health services, and mental health conversation starter cards.  “Efforts like mental health education outreach programs and stigma reduction can make a big difference,” Rudolphi said. Both women emphasize the unique stressors producers face, such as long hours, physically demanding labor, risk of injury and working conditions in remote geographic areas.  “Farmers depend heavily on predictable weather for crop yields and livestock health,” said Captain. “Uncertain conditions such as droughts, floods, or frost can ruin harvests, disrupt schedules, and create financial strain. The emotional stress of dealing with uncontrollable elements often leads to anxiety.” 

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