New website supports stressed-out farmers

LAWRENCE, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Agriculture is offering stressed farmers a place to find support and resources.

A new website, kansasagstress.org, comes at a time when the number of farmers’ suicides is rising across the nation. The website is a collaboration between the state and several other agriculture partners.

Kansas Ag Stress Resources includes a “Family Support” tab that provides resources to different family members. The main page lists the Kansas Suicide Prevention Line and the Crisis Text Line.

Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said in a news release that the website is intended to support those involved in Kansas agriculture through times of emotional of financial stress.

Gov. Laura Kelly said the increase in suicide rates for farmer and ranchers is alarming and the state wants to provide them and their loved ones with support, and with alternatives to suicide.