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IFB encourages mental health awareness as farm profitability wanes

Top officials with the Illinois Farm Bureau say profitability concerns are bringing increased awareness around farmer mental health.

President, and Ogle County farmer, Brian Duncan tells Brownfield…

“As we look at depressed commodity prices, wondering where the relief is insight, I think we do have a good crop coming in the state, but no matter how good it is, it’s not gonna make up for the shortfall in dollars,” he says.

As the organization pushes for new market opportunities, like sustainable aviation fuel and trade agreements, vice president Evan Hultine, who farms in Bureau County, says the group is also putting the call out to look after each other.

“Along with low profitability, we want to be really concerned about farmer mental health, right, and making sure that you know, we’re taking care of our neighbors.”  He says, “We’re taking care of our friends and helping each other get through some of these more difficult economic times.”

Hultine says local farm bureau offices have mental health resources available to help farmers and their families.

AUDIO: Brian Duncan – Illinois Farm Bureau