At the 2023 Oklahoma Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Farm Director KC Sheperd talked with Vivayic Leaning Analyst and Functional Leader. Dr. Tobin Redwine. Sheperd and Redwine talk about the importance of mental health in the agriculture community.
“Mental health is a growing challenge, particularly for those in youth and rural and agricultural populations,” Redwine said.
Many agricultural producers in need of mental health counseling do not seek the help they need, and in time many are impacted by these actions aside from the individual. While it is always good and healthy to communicate with friends and family, Redwine stressed the importance of talking to a mental health professional, as they are equipped to help with things that a friend or family member may not know to discuss.
OKBF has started a program called the Healthy Minds Seminar Series, featuring webinars and in-person sessions talking about strategies and tactics to support good mental health practices.
“It is an important practice not only to just talk to somebody but to equip ourselves with strategies,” Redwine said.
Just like producers can talk to a specialist about a crop rotation strategy or how to fix the timing on their tractor, Redwine said a mental health practitioner can help to equip ag producers with tools that sometimes, talking to a regular person cannot.
“That influences your family, your community, your farm, and your practice,” Redwine said. “My advice is that it is not something to be afraid of but something to celebrate.”
