Farm Well Summit – Growing a Healthy Agriculture Community – February 4

Did you know that farmers are more likely to die by suicide than the general population?  Some statistics suggest three and a half times more likely.  With the struggles facing farmers, this statistic seems to be on the rise.  That’s why we are talking about this and taking steps to combat this.

UF/IFAS Extension is working with other organizations in the agriculture, including Florida Farm Bureau, to raise awareness of farm stress and farmer mental health.  We want farmers to know that there are places to go for help, and that it is OK to ask for help.  We also want farmers to learn how to spot signs of mental health struggles in their fellow farmers and what they can do to help. 

If you get sick physically, you go to a doctor because they have the knowledge and tools to help you feel better.  The same is true of mental health professionals.  If you are struggling, they have the knowledge and tools to help you get through the hard times. 

On February 4, 2025, we will be holding a Farm Well Summit to discuss these big issues with farmers and others in the agriculture industry.  We need to reduce the stigma associated with asking for help and we need to train farmers how to ask the right questions, and how to refer other farmers to seek the help they need as they need it.  Maybe together, we can change this statistic because 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide is a disturbing statistic.   

As a reminder, 988 is an easy number to remember.  It’s the lifeline number.  Anyone can call this number when dealing with suicide or a mental health crisis. 

The Farm Well Summit will be held on February 4, 2025, in Pace, Florida.  The program will begin in the afternoon and conclude with a Dinner BARN Theater performance by 4-H youth. 

For more information on this event or to RSVP, contact Jennifer Bearden at 850-689-5850.