OMAHA (DTN) -- A new digital tool can help agricultural producers find counselors trained to address the stresses of agriculture. The AgriStress Provider Directory, https://directory.agrisafe.org/…, offers access to counselors who provide care to farmers, according to an AgriSafe news release.

Agricultural producers face unique challenges, putting them at higher risk for depression and thoughts of suicide. The industry has some of the highest worker rates of death by suicide compared to other occupations, according to AgriSafe.

"Every day, America's farmers and ranchers put their health and safety on the line to provide food, fuel, and fiber for our nation," Dr. Tara Haskins, AgriSafe Total Farmer Health director, said. "They deserve to speak with counselors who understand their work, and can meet them where they are, with realistic and attainable solutions."

Resources for ag producers are at an all-time low, with over 60% of rural communities experiencing mental health provider shortages.

AgriSafe has built the provider directory with support from CoBank and Farm Credit Council. The directory has counselors that can serve across 49 states, either in-person or via telehealth visits. All counselors listed in the directory have taken AgriSafe's training for healthcare providers, FarmResponse, to understand the unique factors that affect ag producers, according to the release.

If more immediate assistance is needed, such as if someone is having thoughts of suicide or needs someone to talk to immediately, he or she should call or text 988. Agricultural-informed suicide crisis help is also available by calling the AgriStress Helpline at 1-833-897-2474. The service is available in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, Montana, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.

For more on the unique mental health challenges farmers and ranchers face and listings of assistance resources, visit DTN/Progressive Farmer's Spotlight on Rural Mental Health page here:

https://www.dtnpf.com/….

Russ Quinn can be reached at Russ.Quinn@dtn.com

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