Mental Health Resources

You check in on the farm, family, and friends. When is the last time you checked in with yourself?

Far too many Georgia farmers and producers are struggling with untreated or un-diagnosed mental health problems. Our team at GDA is dedicated to raising awareness and educating Georgia's agricultural community on the resources available to them. If you or a loved one is struggling, we urge you to use the resources below to get help.

UGA Extension – resources geared towards rural communities focusing on stress and mental health, nutrition and physical healthy, financial management, and youth development.

Agrisafe Network – resources in English and Spanish focusing on mental health geared towards farmers and minorities in the agriculture community.

Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities – home of the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) 1-800-715-4225. This phone number can get you immediate access to help and is available 24/7.

Georgia Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – an emergency phone line 9-8-8, for people seeking help with suicidal thoughts.

Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance (GAWA) – join a coalition of farmers, nonprofits, universities, health organizations, and more with the common goal of improving the well-being of farmers and farming communities in Georgia.

GDA Disaster Resources and Recovery  – mental health resources focusing on disaster recovery and animal disease outbreaks.

 

Let’s Check In – Signs of Stress

You may think that the signs and symptoms of stress are obvious, but there are some symptoms you may experience without realizing. Take a few moments to check in with your behavior, body, emotions, and thinking with the signs below.

  • Digestive issues
  • Headaches and pains
  • Losing your appetite/eating too much
  • Sweating and/or chills
  • Tremors or muscle twitches
  • Easily startled
  • Decrease or increase in energy level
  • Irritability
  • Trouble relaxing or sleeping
  • Crying frequently
  • Worrying excessively
  • Blaming other people for everything
  • Difficulty communicating/listening
  • Having difficulty giving or accepting help
  • Anxious or fearful
  • Depression, guilt, or anger
  • Feeling heroic, euphoric, or invulnerable
  • Not caring about anything
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Trouble remembering or making decisions
  • Feeling confused
  • Trouble thinking clearly and concentrating

If you find yourself experiencing some of these signs or symptoms of stress, try checking out some of the resources at the top of this page.

The ABC’s of Agricultural Wellness

 

7 Tips For Cultivating Mentalhealth Onthe Farm Cultivating Care:Factors That Affect Farmer's Mental HealthCultivating Care: Farmer Mental Health By The Numbers