by Karen Endres

Talking to a counselor can have a positive impact on your life and your farm business. Knowing where to start is often the hardest part. It is no secret that farming is stressful. Understanding what mental health is, the stigma around it, and the benefits of counseling and other resources available can help you decide if it is right for you.

Karen Endres is the Farmer Wellness Program Coordinator for the Wisconsin Farm Center at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has a short and easy article on What to expect in your first counseling session.

For more in-depth information about starting therapy and what to expect, read NPR's step-by-step guide to finding a therapist.

Greener Pastures Watch Party

Greener Pastures - a documentary about four Midwestern farm families persevere through climate change, industrialization, and mental health crises - is available now through PBS. Read more about the film here, find a few friends who want to watch it, and schedule your own watch party or movie night! Take note, this film discusses suicide and suicidal feelings. Take care when watching.

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Alternative text: Image of two people walking in a barn overlain with text that reads: "Mental health services made affordable. The Wisconsin Farm Center offers vouchers to cover the cost of in-person counseling at participating providers. farmcenter.wi.gov | 800-942-2472"

Caption: The Wisconsin Farm Center provides access to free, confidential counseling sessions with licensed mental health professionals by phone or video. To learn more about vouchers and participating providers offered through the Wisconsin Farm Center, visit farmcenter.wi.gov or call (800) 942-2474.