Welcome to our first full length episode in our 2024 May Mental Health Series. Our favorite returning guest, Dr. Nora Feldpausch, graciously joins us again to share her many (excellent) thoughts and perspectives about mental health and agriculture. 

Nora says that agriculture is not just a job, it's almost a religion. We found ourselves nodding our heads and we're sure that many of our listeners will too. While this is something we can be (and are!) proud of, it can also present some serious challenges when you or someone you love finds themselves in a difficult mental health situation. We discuss the importance of community, of finding the courage to ask for help, of the challenges and opportunities in rural mental health care access, and the hope that there is for everyone, no matter what you're facing, big or small. 

As always, Nora is a wealth of knowledge and information, but more importantly, she is warm, funny, and the kind of person you want to sit down and talk for hours with. We're lucky to have her for one, and know that you will agree as you listen to this episode. 

If you or someone you know needs help with mental health challenges or substance abuse, please reach out. Here are some resources to consider:

Lifeline Chat and Text is a service of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline connecting individuals with crisis counselors for emotional support and other services via web chat or texting 988.

The American Psychological Association has many great resources for whatever distress you may be experiencing. Visit apa.org to find resources including:

Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741

Narcotics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous Gamblers Anonymous Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline (800) 662-4357

and many other excellent resources for all kinds of support and difficult experiences.

Some agriculture-focused resources are:

https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/mental-health 

https://www.nmpf.org/resources/mental-health-and-wellness/

https://www.dairyherd.com/news/business/free-help-available-those-farmers-struggling-mental-health

https://www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/programs-resources/stress-wellness-resources/

https://www.fb.org/initiative/farm-state-of-mind

Please, please reach out for help if you are hurting. You are loved, you are worthy, you are needed, you are wanted. You don’t have to do this alone.

With love and hope, Katharine and Valene

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Love, Katharine and Val