It's Okay to Not Be Okay
Farming is a demanding job that can be both physically and mentally taxing. Farmers are often exposed to long hours, unpredictable weather, and financial uncertainty. These stressors can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). May is recognized as Mental Health Month in the U.S.
The Midwest is home to many farmers, and the region has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country. In fact, farmers are two to four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.
Several things can be done to help farmers improve their mental health. These include:
•Talking about mental health: Farmers must discuss their health with their loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Talking about mental health can help to reduce the stigma associated with it and make it easier for farmers to get the help they need.
•Seeking professional help: If you are a farmer struggling with mental health, please don't hesitate to seek professional help. Many mental health professionals specialize in working with farmers.
•Taking care of yourself: Farmers need to care for themselves physically and mentally. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs.
•Connecting with others: Farmers can also benefit from connecting with others who understand the challenges of farming.
Many organizations provide support for farmers, such as Rural Minds and NAMI. If you are a farmer or know a farmer who is struggling with their mental health, please reach out for help. Call or text 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.
For more than two decades, Joseph L. Murphy has had the pleasure of meeting and connecting with people from all walks of life through photography. He has photographed presidents and heads of state, traversed the winding alleyways of the Fes Medina in Morocco, photographed the sprawling countryside and people that make up Argentina and covered events that have defined the U.S. Most recently, Murphy’s travels have taken him to Cambodia, Mexico, China, Vietnam and Ecuador.
He has spent the past 20 years specializing in agriculture photography for multiple organizations, publications and marketing projects.
A graduate of the University of Iowa, Murphy determined at an early age that his love of photography would shape his vision for life.