With uncontrollable trade deals, unpredictable market prices, and an ever changing weather pattern over the last few years, farmers have been left in the dark on what to expect. This not knowing what to expect each year leaves tension on the human brain. These effects on the brain can lead many farmers to depression, overuse of alcohol, and oftentimes leaves them to isolate themselves. Many may say more than just farmers are at risk.

Yes this is true and everyone matters but in this case who will feed the world without farmers and ranchers.

With the previous trade war the United States is running out of grain storage; leaving elevators full and the extra grain products being left out in storage pits to be rained on and spoiled. Farmers become frustrated and worried if they will be able to make an income for their families. The fear of failing can cause them to develop the idea that they don’t need to be around to find out.

With agriculture already suffering from other uncontrollable outcomes the average independent farmers are suffering from bankruptcies. With the price of machinery and land going up and crop prices staying stagnant, it is hard to make ends meet. Farmers are often forced to settle with the lower markets and take out loans to fill the financial gaps. The business of failing is where the highest chance of operator suicide could occur.

Farmer mental health can suffer so much, they are at a loss of where to go and don’t use the help that is out there. All of the outside factors that are beyond a farmer’s control leads to an abundance of stress.

The agriculture community needs to encourage farmers or ranchers who are suffering to use the support groups. Our community is here to back agriculturists and they aren’t alone. Suicide numbers must start changing direction, or we will have no one to provide the food, clothing, and products for tomorrow. If you see a farmer suffering, the Farm Crisis Center encourages you to have them call 1(800) FARM-AID or visit the Farm Aid website. There is also the National Suicide Hotline 1 (800) 273-TALK and even closer there is the Kansas Ag Stress Resource at 1 (800) 447-1985.

These programs are here to answer questions and help you get through the hard times. Watch your neighbors and loved ones closely so they do not fall as a victim to suicide. The one single thing that might prevent suicide is the knowledge that someone cares and will miss them if they’re gone.

Nicole Haase, the daughter of Arrin and Kristin Haase, is the 2020-21 Ellsworth Junior/Senior High School FFA vice president.