Some places to turn

To the Editor:

Farmers are the backbone of our community and region. Planting season brings long hours and lots of uncertainty that accompanies the season.

Now, current threats to our food supply chain are leaving farmers feeling overwhelmed and out of options.

Now more than ever, we need you. Your families, communities, livestock and land that you pour your labors into, need you. Your physical and mental well-being is important. We know how passionate farmers are about this work, and you have to take care of yourself to be able to do it. If you are feeling overwhelmed or are struggling, we want you to know that we care and that there are options for help.

If you need someone to talk to, the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline is available 24/7. Call (833) 600-2670. It’s free and confidential.

Or you may call Ted Mathews of the Minnesota Rural Mental Health Specialists. His number is (320) 266-2390.

The University of Minnesota Extension service lists financial and mental health resources at https://extension.umn.edu/rural-stress.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is (800) 273-8255.

The Crisis Text Line is: Text MN to 741741.

You may also contact your local medical center or local psychologist offices.

Anna Garbers

Behavioral Health program manager

Human Services of

Faribault & Martin Counties