GREAT FALLS — In Summer 2022, the Montana Department of Agriculture partnered with Frontier Psychiatry in Billings to launch a new initiative aimed at providing free mental health resources for farm families. The idea for this partnership was inspired by Courtney Kibblewhite, Vice President of the Northern Ag Network.
“My family has been involved in farming and ranching in Montana since 1960 and in Wyoming before that,” Kibblewhite shared. “I have personally struggled with mental health issues, particularly with depression. We realized that by engaging in conversations with farmers and ranchers on a daily basis, we can help eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage individuals to address their own mental well-being.”
Statistics from the Montana DPHHS indicate that Montana ranks 3rd in the nation for suicide rates. The CDC reports that farmers and ranchers are at a higher risk of suicide compared to other professions, with a 40% increase in suicide rates over the past two decades.
“Given the rural and isolating nature of the agricultural industry, these challenges are amplified,” said Kibblewhite.
The agriculture industry is known for its difficulties, ranging from unpredictable weather patterns that affect crop growth to market prices and the added pressure of succession planning for ag producers.
“The tight profit margins in agriculture are further compounded by inflation, making it a challenging time for many in the industry,” Kibblewhite explained. “Succession planning has also become a prominent issue, as individuals navigate how to pass down their legacy to the next generation.”
Two years after the launch of “Beyond the Weather,” mental health conversations are gaining traction within farm communities across Montana. The initiative has expanded its reach to Wyoming through partnerships with the Wyoming Department of Agriculture and Frontier Psychiatry.
Looking ahead, “Beyond the Weather” is advocating for legislative funding to support its mission. However, Kibblewhite believes that community-level discussions to destigmatize mental health in agriculture can be more impactful than financial resources.
Kibblewhite emphasized the importance of seeking help for mental health struggles, sharing her own experiences of living far from town and dealing with negative thoughts. She encouraged individuals to speak to healthcare providers about potential treatments, including therapy and medication.
For immediate assistance in crisis situations, individuals can dial 988 for a free and anonymous lifeline operated by Voices of Hope in Great Falls. The website for free mental health resources is Beyond the Weather.
