Young Joins Colleagues to Address Farmer Suicide Crisis

Statement

In an effort to turn the tide on the unacceptably high rates of suicide among farmers, Reps. David Young (R-IA), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), Rick Nolan (D-MN), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Rodney Davis (R-IL), Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM), John Katko (R-NY), John Faso (R-NY) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the Stemming the Tide of Rural Economic Stress and Suicide (STRESS) Act (H.R. 5259) to make mental health treatment more available for farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers.

Due to the nature of their work and the lack of mental health treatment available, these individuals suffer from higher rates of depression and suicide. The most recent report from the Centers for Disease Control found rates of suicide among farmers are the highest of any occupation in the United States.

Specifically, the STRESS Act will reauthorize the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to give states needed resources to provide mental health services for farmers and ranchers. Though the program was first authorized in 2008, it did not receive funding and therefore lapsed. The STRESS Act will renew FRSAN, restoring our nation's attention to Americans in farming who are disproportionately affected by high rates of suicide.

"Our farmers and folks working in agriculture feed and sustain the world and it's only right we take steps to support them if they're experiencing a crisis. Farmers face tough times and take their lives at a rate higher than any other occupation, so I am proud to support this bill to help Iowans working in agriculture get access to the help and assistance they need," said Rep. Young.

"Farmers in Minnesota and across America are in the midst of a suicide crisis. Those who work in agriculture face uniquely high-stress challenges ranging from social isolation to strong dependence on factors outside of their control. Combined with the incredible lack of mental health treatment available, our farmers have been left to suffer alone in the shadows without the help and care they need and deserve. Addressing the shortage of services available with the STRESS Act is a good first step to turn the tide on this crisis. I am hopeful this bill will be included in the upcoming Farm Bill to ensure farmers get care before crisis and am grateful to the House Agricultural Committee for their support of this effort thus far," said Rep. Emmer.

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