Farm Stress and Mental Health Resources

We care about you.

At Mississippi Land Bank, we take pride in truly understanding our customers. Sometimes that means helping identify the loan that best fits your operation. Other times, it means recognizing the stress that can come with farming and rural life. Our commitment goes beyond consideration—it’s rooted in empathy and compassion.

While we may not have a solution for every situation, we want to offer support in every way we can. Below, you’ll find resources from partner organizations that serve as powerful reminders: you’re not alone. If you find yourself in need—or simply connect with these messages—please don’t hesitate to reach out. You’ll find a friend in us and in your agricultural community.

If you are in crisis (or know someone who is in crisis) and need someone to talk to RAFI (Rural Advancement Foundation International) has a Farmer Crisis Hotline available Monday-Thursday 9:00AM-5:00PM by dialing toll-free 866.586.6746.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is immediately available 24/7 by calling or texting the number 988 via phone or chatting at 988lifeline.org .

Featured Resource for Farmers

Out of the Shadows Documentary
American AgCredit
Out of the Shadows is a powerful 20-minute film produced by American AgCredit that confronts the mental health crisis in rural America. Through the personal stories of farmers and ranchers, the documentary sheds light on the emotional toll of agricultural life, including the impact of isolation, financial stress, and generational pressure. The film emphasizes the stigma that often surrounds mental health in rural communities—preventing individuals from seeking help—and aims to foster open dialogue and awareness. By showcasing real experiences, Out of the Shadows encourages viewers to recognize the importance of mental wellness and to support those struggling in silence. It is part of Farm Credit’s broader initiative to promote mental health resources and resilience in agricultural communities.
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Professional Resources

(this list has been shared by Clarksdale Methodist Church in Clarksdale, MS in effort to minister to the agriculture community in the greater MS Delta area)

Farm Credit and Agriculture Community Resources

David Gilmer | Dairy-to-Beef Transition
Mississippi State University TV Center
David Gilmer offers a second perspective on transitioning from dairy to beef. His story focuses on strategic planning, emotional resilience, and the role of mentorship and community in navigating major operational changes.
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Kim Klunk | Large Animal Vet
Mississippi State University TV Center
Kim Klunk, a rural veterinarian, shares the mental and physical demands of her profession. From long hours and emergency calls to the emotional strain of euthanasia and client relationships, the vignette highlights compassion fatigue and the need for mental health resources in veterinary medicine.
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Nathan Casburn | Substance Use Disorder
Mississippi State University TV Center
Nathan Casburn candidly recounts his battle with substance use disorder, detailing how addiction affected his personal and professional life. The vignette sheds light on the lack of rural treatment options and the power of recovery through community, faith, and purpose.
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Pentecost Brothers | Catfish Farming
Mississippi State University TV Center
This video profiles the Pentecost Brothers, who run a catfish farm in Mississippi. It explores the unique stressors of aquaculture, including water quality management, market volatility, and family dynamics. The story underscores the importance of teamwork and emotional support in sustaining a family-run operation.
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Will Gilmer | Dairy-to-Beef Transition
Mississippi State University TV Center
Will Gilmer discusses the difficult decision to transition his farm from dairy to beef production. The story explores the emotional and financial challenges of letting go of a generational legacy, adapting to new markets, and maintaining mental well-being through change.
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Sam McLemore | Specialty Crops & Farmers Market
Mississippi State University TV Center
Sam McLemore discusses the pressures of growing specialty crops and selling directly to consumers through farmers markets. The vignette explores the challenges of niche farming, including economic uncertainty, customer expectations, and the mental load of being both producer and marketer.
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Edward Jenkins | Farm Stress
Mississippi State University TV Center
Edward Jenkins shares his experience with the chronic stress of farming, including financial uncertainty, unpredictable weather, and isolation. The vignette emphasizes how these pressures can accumulate and affect mental health, and it advocates for open conversations and professional support to reduce stigma.
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Steven Sanford | Farm Injury and Recovery
Mississippi State University TV Center
This short video follows Steven Sanford, a farmer who suffered a severe injury while working on his farm. The film documents his physical rehabilitation and the emotional toll of recovery, including the impact on his family and livelihood. It highlights the importance of community support, access to healthcare, and mental resilience in overcoming trauma.
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Rural Resilience Training
Farm Credit, AFBF, Michigan State University Extension
Free online course to help farmers and families cope with stress.
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Farm Family Wellness Alliance
Farm Credit & Partners
Free access to Togetherall, a peer-to-peer support platform.
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Out of the Shadows Documentary
American AgCredit
Out of the Shadows is a powerful 20-minute film produced by American AgCredit that confronts the mental health crisis in rural America. Through the personal stories of farmers and ranchers, the documentary sheds light on the emotional toll of agricultural life, including the impact of isolation, financial stress, and generational pressure. The film emphasizes the stigma that often surrounds mental health in rural communities—preventing individuals from seeking help—and aims to foster open dialogue and awareness. By showcasing real experiences, Out of the Shadows encourages viewers to recognize the importance of mental wellness and to support those struggling in silence. It is part of Farm Credit’s broader initiative to promote mental health resources and resilience in agricultural communities.
Visit and Watch the VideoDownload HereVisit for More Information