One Day at a Time: Supporting Mental Health in Agriculture
Mental health is an important conversation in every community, but it carries unique challenges in rural America. Farming often requires long hours, resilience, and the ability to navigate factors outside of anyone’s control—weather, markets, and the pressures of running a family operation. While farmers are known for their strength and determination, these pressures can sometimes take a serious toll.
In a powerful video interview, Jeff Irwin shares the deeply personal story of losing his father, Gary, to suicide in 1984. At the time, Jeff was just 22 years old. The tragedy occurred on Jeff’s birthday and would go on to shape his life for decades.
Living With Loss and Questions
Jeff explains that when his father died, mental health was rarely talked about—especially in rural communities. Families often faced grief quietly, without many resources or support systems to help them understand what had happened.
For years, Jeff struggled with the same questions many families experience after losing someone to suicide: Why did this happen? Were there signs that were missed? Could something have been done differently? The emotional impact of that loss stayed with him long after the day itself.
The Unique Pressures of Agriculture
One of the themes Jeff highlights is the unique stress that often comes with life in agriculture. Farmers face constant uncertainty—from changing markets and rising costs to unpredictable weather conditions. At the same time, farming culture has traditionally valued independence and toughness, which can make it difficult for people to talk openly about stress or mental health struggles.
For many years, conversations about depression, anxiety, or emotional hardship simply didn’t happen in rural communities. As a result, many people felt they had to carry their burdens alone.
Today, Jeff shares his family’s story in hopes that it will encourage others to talk more openly about mental health. By sharing what his family experienced, he hopes to help others recognize warning signs and understand the importance of reaching out for support.
Awareness around mental health has grown significantly since the 1980s, and more resources are available today for farmers and rural families. However, Jeff believes the most important step is still conversation—checking in on one another and making sure people know they are not alone.
One Day at a Time
Jeff’s message is simple but powerful: take life one day at a time. Whether someone is facing stress, loss, or difficult seasons in life or farming, healing and progress often happen gradually.
Agriculture has always been built on community—neighbors helping neighbors and families supporting one another through difficult times. By continuing to talk openly about mental health and look out for one another, rural communities can help ensure that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Sometimes the most meaningful support starts with something simple: a conversation, a check-in, or a reminder that help is available and hope is always possible—one day at a time.
At Valley Plains Equipment, we believe supporting farmers goes beyond providing equipment and service. It means supporting the people who keep our communities and food systems running. At the end of the day, taking care of our people is just as important as taking care of our land!!
Rural Minds Resources
Rural Minds is a U.S. nonprofit organization focused on improving mental health awareness and support in rural communities. It works to reduce the stigma around mental illness and connect rural residents—including farmers, ranchers, and small-town families—with mental health resources and information. The organization focuses on helping people in rural America access mental health education, resources, and support. Its mission is to be a trusted voice for mental health in rural communities and help people find the help they need.
Key Goals
Rural Minds works to raise awareness about mental health challenges in rural communities while helping reduce the stigma around mental illness so people feel more comfortable talking about it. The organization also provides valuable resources and crisis information for individuals and families who may be struggling. In addition, Rural Minds advocates for improved mental health services in rural areas and partners with organizations, community leaders, and advocates to strengthen support systems for rural residents.
Why It Matters in Rural Communities
Mental health challenges can be especially difficult in rural areas due to several unique barriers. Suicide rates in rural communities are significantly higher than in urban areas, and many rural counties lack psychiatrists or other mental health providers. Distance between services, geographic isolation, and lingering stigma around mental health can make it even harder for individuals and families to seek the help and support they need.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Some other great resources are available at www.Ruralminds.org
