Simple is Better: Supporting Farmers, Strengthening Communities

Death is hard. Death by suicide? Even more challenging.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Because of this, Farmer Angel Network is the Our Monthly Resolution organization.

The statistics are staggering. Death by suicide rates are two to five times more prevalent for farmers and ranchers than other occupations. The Farmer Angel Network wants to bring awareness to this. The non-profit organization formed after a Sauk County farmer died by suicide in the fall of 2018. As community members chatted with the family, it became clear that extreme sadness and feelings of helplessness affected not only this family but also other community members. A farmer shared his history of severe depression and suicidal thoughts.

The directive was clear. Other community and family members needed support. This group formed a safe place for people to come together and talk about farm stress and more understanding of death by suicide. Speakers and resources helped others learn about mental health concerns in rural communities. From this the Farmer Angel Network was formed.

The Farmer Angel Network continues to build strong rural communities that support agriculture by providing education, resources, and fellowship with a focus on mental health. This group includes farmers; healthcare workers; veterinarians; health department, land and water department and extension employees, church members; and others community members.

Farmers and farm families face unique challenges when it comes to mental health support. Many struggle in silence and are not aware of available help. Rural communities may have limited traditional mental health resources. Asking for help is incredibly difficult. Those offering support services find more impact when they reach out directly to farmers.

Mental health challenges continue to be of concern in rural Wisconsin communities. Offering free resources are helpful. The number of people utilizing a free hot line through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has increased in 2026.

The goal of Farmer Angel Network over time is to end isolation and help communities come back together. The network helps bridge gaps by raising awareness of available mental health resources, fostering farmer-to-farmer support to reduce the stigma of seeking help and working with partners to bring support directly to farmers when they need it most.

Utilization of free resources for farmers in Wisconsin has increased in 2026. The need for such resources is increasing; not decreasing. It seems fitting for us to support the important work that Farmer Angel Network at this time. Will you help us? Here’s how:

Donate online at: https://www.farmerangelnetwork.com/donatetoday

Mail a donation to: Farmer Angel Network and mailed to: E4681 County Rd S, Reedsburg, WI 53959

If your employer matches charitable donations, their EIN is: 99-2788291.

Supporting Farmer Angel Network is personal for me. Hubby Rick and I personally knew the man for whom Farmer Angel Network was formed. We encourage you to support resources which will help other families from going the heartbreak of experiencing death by suicide.

Blessings –

Dianne