By Amy Herring, ABAC Agricultural Communication
Long days filled with sweat, sacrifice, and heartache, all poured into the mission of feeding America. Farmers, often overlooked, remain the backbone of America. Behind the barns and tractors are real people quietly bearing emotional, physical, and financial strain.
Mental health in agriculture has become an increasingly urgent issue. Studies show male farmers and ranchers face a suicide rate 50% higher than the general male population. The pressure of relentless unpredictable weather, market swings, unpredictable equipment, and rising costs. Yet, mental health support in rural areas remains limited. Even when resources are available, stigma, pride, and traditional beliefs can keep farmers from seeking help.
The Sunbelt Ag Expo recognizes the need to address this crisis head on. In partnership with the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine of South Georgia (PCOM), the Expo is working to bring awareness to the mental health struggles faced by those in agriculture and provide farmers direct access to support and education.
PCOM South Georgia, located in Moultrie, is part of the larger PCOM family. PCOM is a nonprofit osteopathic medical school system that trains future doctors, pharmacists, and healthcare professionals. With a focus on whole person care, PCOM emphasizes community health and wellness, particularly in underserved rural regions. Their mission aligns directly with the Expo’s goals: to serve and support the people behind our nation’s farms.
This year at the Expo, PCOM will offer a hands-on experience through simulation trucks and interactive demonstrations, giving attendees a chance to see first-hand how students are trained. But beyond education, the ultimate goal is connection, breaking down barriers and encouraging honest conversations about mental health.
Dillon Presley who works with PCOM,“The purpose of being here at the Expo, is to bring awareness that these are people, and they struggle just like the rest of us,” said Presley. “A lot of people don’t understand the weight this profession carries, and that is why we are here.” In addition to PCOM, visitors will find a wide range of organizations focused on wellness, including Veterans Affairs, stress and financial management counseling, and many other community health partners. Together, they aim to provide support not only to farmers, but to their families and rural communities as well. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is check in on our neighbors. For many farmers, that simple act of care can be the first step toward healing.
The Sunbelt Ag Expo has always celebrated innovation, education and the future of agriculture. This year, with PCOM and other partners, it also plants seeds of compassion, courage, and community. Because while farmers feed America, it’s time to help feed their strength.
If someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for free and confidential support.
