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Photo courtesy of Karen Funkenbusch.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The time between harvest and holidays can be among the most stressful months of the year for farmers and their families.
University of Missouri Extension assistant professor Karen Funkenbusch wants farmers and their families to know that they don’t have to face stress alone. Help can be a phone call away.
“Two telephone numbers with only three digits each – 911 and 988 – can save lives,” says Funkenbusch. “Most are familiar with the emergency number of 911, but the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number also is an emergency number for those who need immediate help.”
English- and Spanish-speaking professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Translation services are available in 240 languages.
“Farming is more than a job. It is a way of life, and we know it brings both pride and pressure,” says Funkenbusch. “When stress feels overwhelming, you don’t have to carry it alone. MU Extension is here to listen, to understand and to connect you with resources that support your well-being, your family and your farm.”
Here are a few reasons to call 988:
- Thoughts of suicide.
- Emotional distress.
- Substance use.
- Worried about someone else.
- Trauma.
- General anxiety or depression.
- Feeling lonely or hopeless.
- Relationship or family problems.
- Distress around sexual orientation.
- Financial or job stress.
- Trouble thinking clearly.
Funkenbusch says MU Extension offers many resources to address mental health crises in rural areas. These resources also include free telehealth counseling by a trusted licensed mental health counselor who understands agriculture.
Any Missouri farmer, rancher, farmworker and immediate family member over the age of 16 is eligible. Request services online or call 573-882-4677.