Governor JB Pritzker is announcing an expansion of mental health services for farmers across the state.
Thanks to a $500,000 grant from the USDA, a telephone hotline initiative that connects troubled farmers with mental health providers and resources will be implemented statewide. Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello says it’s a service that is needed.
“Farmers are stewards of their livestock and crops but many times they don’t take the time to care for themselves. This leads to high levels of anxiety, depression, sometimes substance abuse and all too often suicide.”
The grant will also help pay for a voucher program for professional behavioral health services and to train providers in the specific needs of the agriculture community.
